These are the steps that I took to complete the fifth ENGI 210 Project: 3D Printing
Choosing an Impossible Object Design
The first step to this project was choosing a design for an impossible object from ThingyVerse. I chose an Articulated Lizard designed by Javi Rodríguez (Username: McGybeer). This is an impossible object because of the inter-locking mechanism in the body and tail.
Articulated lizard design on ThingyVerse
Part 1: Printing in FDM
In order to print the articulated lizard in FDM, I imported the STL file from ThingyVerse and uploaded it to the 3DPrinterOS site. I adjusted the Layer Height to 0.15mm, Wall Thickness to 1mm, and the Infill Density to 15%. The first iteration of my print contained a raft type build plate which was difficult to remove from the intricate arms and legs of the lizard design, so for my next 4 prints I removed all build plate adhesions. The first print fit snugly into the capsule so I kept the size of the print the same for the next iterations. Each lizard took around 4 hours to print.
Articulated lizard design in 3DPrinterOS
FDM printing in progress
Final articulated lizard FDM prints
Part 2: Printing in SLA
In order to print the articulated lizard in SLA, I uploaded the STL file to FormLabs’ PreForm program. 4 classmates and I decided to print our designs simultaneously on the same bed to save time. To made sure each part of our designs had adequate supports, we had to manually add additionally supports to hard-to-reach locations. The SLA printer took around 4 hours to print all 5 of our designs. The prints were then washed and cured following the given instructions. Unfortunately, the chain mechanism in the body and tail of my lizard design was too intricate and the SLA printer had melted the joints together. Thus, my lizard printed as a solid object with no articulation.
Impossible object designs in PreForm program
SLA prints in washing machine
SLA printed lizard design
Overall, this homework project was very helpful in learning different 3D printing techniques. I learned that some designs are geared towards certain prints, especially in the case for this articulated lizard. My FDM prints were far neater and functional compared to my SLA print.
Cost Analysis
- Printing materials (FDM and SLA) = $3.00
- Labor: 4 hours x $15/hour = $60
Total = $63
*Printer use costs emitted
