The first assignment after the mideterm project was to print 5 “impossible” objects using two different 3D printing methods.

For my object, I decided to choose an articulated shark model from Thingiverse.

The first 3D printing technique I used was FDM on the Prusa PLA machines. After downloading the file onto the OEDK computer, I scaled it to be roughly 5 cm long so that it would fit inside the gumball machine capsules. I also printed the models without supports or a brim as supports would be very difficult to remove without breaking the model and would also interfere with the model’s ability to bend. In total, I printed out 3 sharks using this method.

For the last 2 sharks I used SLA printing. First, I opened the model on the PreForm software, scaled it down, and duplicated it once before sending it to the queue on the printer. Once the printer was free, I started my print and came back after 3 hours to wash and cure the parts.

Overall, this was a fairly simple and fun assignment that helped me practice using different 3D printing methods to create the same model.

Cost Analysis

PLA Filament: ~20g = $0.35

Resin: ~15g = $0.30

Labor: $18/hr preparing printers for 1 hour = $18

Total = $18.65