Hello everyone,

I’m so sorry this blog has been so delayed. One thing this class has definitely taught me is how to navigate uncomfortable spaces. I was really nervous to use the 3D printers since I had never touched one before, but it’s definitely not as daunting as it seems.

Honestly, the longest part was probably just selecting a design and waiting for it to print. I ended up using both the Bambu and Prusa printers since those were available when I was at the OEDK.

I didn’t see an instruction sheet, so I asked a lab assistant for a quick rundown and then decided to play around with the different features. At first, I calculated how much space the design needed based on the circumference of the capsules, and since the rabbits are flexible, they’re definitely easier to manipulate.

Starting with the Bambu machine—it was super simple. I didn’t have to alter too many settings, and because my design was flat, I didn’t need any supports. Luckily, it printed perfectly the first time and fit exactly how I wanted, which was really exciting! For the Prusa prints, the slicer software recommended I add some supports, which I think messed with the flexibility of the piece and caused it to break when I tried to test it out. That was pretty frustrating, but I reprinted it with adjusted supports, and I think it turned out much better.

All in all, I’m not sure why this project felt the most intimidating, but I’m really glad I pushed through it. Everything worked out, and I’m proud of how it turned out. And here’s my clean workspace photo!

Cost Analysis:

Bambu:

Units: 3

Filament Cost per Unit: $0.37

Power Cost per Unit: $0.01

Total Cost per Unit: $0.38

Total Cost (3 units): $1.15

Prusa:

Units: 2

Filament Cost per Unit: $0.44

Power Cost per Unit: $0.04

Total Cost per Unit: $0.48

Total Cost (2 units): $0.97