For this assignment, I applied knowledge learned from class in 3D shapefiles and advanced manufacturing techniques to create a moderately difficult and fairly impossible object using at least two 3D printing processes. In order to identify which object satisfied the stipulated requirements, I searched thingiverse.com to find articulated or hinged objects’ 3D files. Once I found a Thingiverse user: NeonGraveStoneArt’s “Articulating Shark”, I knew that I had my desired shape. I downloaded the file and prepared to print.  

I opted to use the FDM process and a Bambu printer for three of my identical sharks. Once I loaded the 3D file into Bambu studio Slicer, I was able to scale the dimensions to my desired measurements, optimizing the space in the provided gumball capsule. The Prusa software, however, did not provide the option of inputting specific measurements for each axis, and instead scaled the object down uniformly. Since I preferred the size of the Bambu slicer objects, I kept the respective prints as they were sized.

To improve the stability and integrity of my objects, I selected auto supports for both sets of prints since the shape has a good amount of overhang, as well as 5 mm brim on the Prusa prints.

The sharks printed using the Bambu took 40 minutes to complete and came off the printing bed very easily with some pressure applied to the fins and tail. They also had minimal filament stringing and dross on the bottom and in the interlocking sections. On the contrary, the Prusa prints had a large amount of dross on the bottom of the object, and in the interlocking sections of the shark. Using pliers and scissors, I cut out all the extra plastic to reveal a clean and uniform final product.

Some waste was generated during the project as I neglected to adjust the filament color on the Prusa machine, thus, two sharks were printed in black plastic, as opposed to white.

This project cost about $50 in total, including labor and equipment time costs. I estimated a $10 payment to be made to the 3D file creator on Thingiverse. I also estimated that I used 10% of the loaded filament material for each printer. Going forward, I can cut more costs by creating my own ED shape in CAD.

Cost Model:

Cost Type	Cost	Price	Source	Quantity	Total
Materials	Bambu PLA filament (basic matte)	$19.99	Bambulab.com		$1.99
	Prusa PLA filament	$20.99	Amazon.com		2.99
Labor	Prototyping Engineer (Thingiverse user: NeonGraveStoneArt)	$10			$10
	Prototyping Engineer (You!)	$10/hr	Self	10 minutes	$1
Overhead	Facility Cost (Machine Time)	$5/hr	OEDK Bambu 3D printer	1.33 hrs	$6.7
	Facility Cost (Machine Time)	$5/hr	OEDK Bambu 3D printer	4 hrs	$20
	Quality Control	$5
Design	Engineering and Development	$5/hr	Self	1 hr	5
	Iterations	1			$0
Misc.	Waste and Scrap				$5
Total					$47.68