I don’t know if it’s my boy scout history, but art involving knots and woven things mesmerizes me with its impossibility. By searching “knot” on thingiverse, I discovered mgg942’s “complex knot.” https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1955925
I’m using two print methods for this project: FDM and SLA. The FDM printing is done on a PRUSA i3 mk3s while SLA printing is done on a formlabs form 2.
FDM:
I encountered zero issues with FDM printing for this project. IN order to print, I followed this workflow:
- Download file
- Upload .stl of file onto 3Dprinteros
- Using the layout tool, set the width of the shae to 45mm.
- Using the layout tool again, add the same shape to the file so two shapes are printed at once.
- Slice the file and alter the print height from 0.2mm to 0.3mm
- Remove supports with pliers and an exacto knife.
Overall, these prints came out well. The 0.3mm layer height removed alot of print time but added large amounts of bumps. Overall I am okay with the time it took to print compared to output achieved.
SLA:
I also encountered zero isues with SLA printing for this project. Workflow:
- Using layout in 3Dprinteros, create a file with 3 objects.
- Using the software for the form 2 printer, rotate the three object ~15 degrees.
- Decrease the support density from 1 to whatever looks like it should be ok.
- Send file to printer and print.
- Wash for 20 minutes.
- Remove supports and
- Cure for 20 minutes.
This print took 4 hours but came out looking great. The only issues are where the supports connected there was no way for all the plastic to be smooth.
Cost:
- Material: $0.46 for PLA, $2.65 for SLA ($175 for 1L Form 2 liquid, using 15g for prints.)
- Labor: $30 (3 hours @ $10 per hour)
- Access to tools: $50 for TXRX membership.T
Total: $83.11
