Hi!

For this project, we learn how to use different 3D printing techniques to create an impossible object, which is just an object that is impossible to make with other manufacturing methods. So after scanning thingiverse, I found a flexi shark that I thought was super cute and was an impossible object. And decided I wanted to print it.

Step 1) I downloaded the file from Thingiverse and opened it in Bambu Studio on the OEDK computers where I then scaled it so the x and y were 60 mm, sliced it, then ran a single test print on the FDM printers with a white PLA. It went well as the joints allowed the shark to articulate! However, it just barely fit into the gumball, and as I was taking it out, it unfortunately broke….

Step 2) To fix this issue, I decided to scale it down slightly so the x and y axis were 53 mm instead, and reprinted them. I knew this size would work, so I printed 5 in case 1 turned out funny. After watching them print, I saw a first layer defect, so I stopped the print, cleaned the plate, glued it, then restarted the print. After waiting another hour, my prints were done and they all fit in the gumball!

Step 3) Since we needed to do at least 2 different types of printing, I also used the resin printers to print one more of the 5 total I needed. So I opened the shark file on PreForm and due to its nature, I printed it flat and it didn’t need any supports! So after making sure the cartridge was in and open, I sent it to the printer! I also printed 2 just in case 1 also turned out funny.

Step 4) After printing it, I took it out the printer and into the bath to get it washed. Then I took them off of the printing bed  (where one broke their fin) and put them inside the UV light machine to cure them fully. However, due to the nature of the resin, the parts that linked together to let the shark articulate cured together. I was able to separate the larger links near the head, but the small ones near the tail just snapped and broke the tail off….. For both of them….. Unfortunate. However, they are still mostly together! And I learned how to use the Resin printer and when not to use it!

Step 5) I printed a credits paper for where I found the design and put all of my creations into their gumball!

And of course we keep our workspaces clean!

Cost Analysis:

• Tools (Due to the nature of the tools, I will be omitting them)
• Material
  • While PLA filament – $25.49
  • Clear Resin – $79
  • Isopropyl Alcohol – $9.99
  • Glue Stick – $5.37
• Labor
  • 4 hours (at $10 per hour) = $40

Total cost is $159.85!!

I learned a lot, and learned how simple it is to 3D print! And the only cost to me was my time!