3D Printing
- Caroline Harding
- Apr 24, 2023
- 9 min read
Updated: Oct 30, 2024
Intro:
The next assignment for this class was to learn how to use 3D modeling technology to create a 3D print. For this assignment, I was able to utilize George Mason’s MakerSpace, which is a collaborative workspace located on the Fairfax campus of George Mason University. This space, commonly called the MIX, is a hub for innovation, creativity, and experimentation, providing a platform for students, faculty, and staff to bring their ideas to life.
One of the key technologies available at the MIX is 3D printing. 3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is the process of creating a physical object from a digital design. This process involves layering successive layers of material until the object is complete. 3D printing has revolutionized how people create prototypes, models, and even end-use products. The MIX’s 3D printing capabilities allow users to create a wide range of objects, from simple prototypes to complex and intricate designs. The MIX’s 3D printing resources are available to all members of the George Mason University community, including students, faculty, and staff. In addition to providing access to 3D printers, the MIX also offers workshops and training sessions to teach users the basics of 3D printing and how to design and create their own objects. During class, I attended a workshop that taught me how to use 3-D modeling software, TinkerCAD, and a session on how to use printers.
Prompt:
There wasn’t a specific prompt for this assignment like there was for the other projects. However, I felt like what I chose to create could fall into one of two different categories. On the one hand, I could create something that served a function, such as a business card holder or a paint pallet. Alternatively, I could create something that is purely sculptural and doesn’t have some functional purpose beyond aesthetics. After brainstorming some ideas, I eventually decided to fall into the latter category and create a sculpture of a sea urchin.
I was inspired to make a sea urchin for this project after seeing a photo of various sea urchin shells. I was immediately drawn into all the different color shells and designs displayed. I have also always had an affinity for sea urchins because one of thing things that I like to do with my grandparents when I visit them in Denmark is to go looking for sea urchin fossils on the beach. With that in mind, I feel like this project would be an extenuation of my previous exploration into my Danish identity. Additionally, I thought that the shapes that make up a sea urchin shell would be something that I could create in Tinkercad and be proud of.
Materials/process:
Creating a 3D print involves several steps, from designing the object using CAD software to slicing the model and preparing it for printing. Here is a general overview of the process:
Designing the model:
The first step is to create a digital 3D model of the object you want to print. This can be done using computer-aided design (CAD) software, which allows you to create detailed 3D models. There are many CAD software options available, ranging from free and simple to use tools like Tinkercad to more advanced software like Autodesk Fusion 360 or SolidWorks. In the MIX workshop, we learned how to use Tinkercad so that is what I used to create my print.
To use Tinkercad to create a design that can be 3D printed, start by selecting the appropriate design tools and arranging them on the workplane to create the desired shape or object. Tinkercad offers a variety of design tools, such as shapes, letters, and numbers, which can be combined and manipulated to create complex designs.
In addition to arranging shapes and objects, Tinkercad also includes tools for grouping and combining multiple objects into a single design. This can be useful for creating more complex structures or reducing the number of separate pieces needed for a project. Tinkercad also includes a hole-making tool, which allows users to create openings in their designs for things like screws, wires, or ventilation. These tools give users more control and flexibility over their designs, making it easier to create models that are optimized for 3D printing.
Once the design is complete, make sure to check that it meets the 3D printer's requirements, such as file format and size limitations. Finally, export the design as an STL (STereoLithography) file, which can be uploaded to the 3D printer's software and printed. Remember to take into consideration the printer's resolution and layer height settings to ensure that the final print matches the intended design.
Slicing the model:
The next step is to prepare the 3D model for printing. This is done by "slicing" the model into layers that the 3D printer can understand. Slicing software like Cura or PrusaSlicer takes the 3D model and breaks it down into thousands of thin layers. It also generates a G-code file, which contains instructions for the 3D printer on how to print the model. At the MIX, I was taught how to use Cura to slice my 3D model, so that is the software I used. When slicing my model, I chose the 1.75mm PLA white filament and set the heat setting on the printer to 220 degrees Celsius based on the appropriate heat range indicated on the filament roll’s label. I also experimented with duplicating my model in this program so that I could print as many as I could fit on the board.
Preparing the printer:
Before you can start printing, you need to make sure your 3D printer is set up correctly. This involves leveling the build plate, ensuring the printer's nozzle is clean and free of any debris, and ensuring the printer is properly calibrated. This step may vary depending on the type of printer you have. Fortunately, because this wasn’t my own printer, the staff at the MIX already took care of those requirements, but when considering incorporating 3D printing in the classroom, it is important to remember that this is something I would be in charge of.
Printing the model:
Once the printer is set up, you can begin printing the model. I loaded my G-code file into the printer and started printing. The printer will heat up the filament (PLA in my case) and extrude it layer by layer, following the instructions in the G-code file. The time it takes to print a model can vary depending on its size and complexity. I started my print at 7:10 pm Friday night and the printed said that it would take 15 hours to print. I was slightly surprised that my print was going to take that long to complete. This made me think about whether it would be practical for my students to print their computer-made 3D models in real life. Even if I have access to a 3D printer, it could take forever to print, depending on how many kids are in the class and how big the objects are.
Finishing the print:
Once the print is finished, you may need to remove any support material that was used during the printing process. Support material is used to provide stability to the model as it is being printed, but it can be removed after printing is complete. Some models may also require post-processing, such as sanding or painting, to achieve the desired finish. When I came back to pick up my print on Monday, I was happy to see that it hadn’t failed during the printing process and was waiting for me at the front of the classroom. I had to remove the skits that had been printed with my object and was left with some rough edges that I knew I would need to go back in with sandpaper to clean up. However, I was ecstatic with how they turned out.
The last thing that I did to complete these prints besides cleaning them up was to paint them different colors. I ended up using spray paint to give the whole shell an even coating that I could then work with. After a couple of coats and some drying time, I was ready to do it with some acrylic paint to add an accent color and then add some 3D dots to the shells using puffy paint. Overall, I was very happy with the final outcome of this project, and I can’t wait to go back next semester to print off some more sea urchins to design.
Artists:
"Objectified: Hood" by Joshua Harker. Size various from 9 to 24 in. 3d printed polyamide. 2017.
Joshua Harker is a contemporary American artist known for his groundbreaking work in 3D printing. Harker's artistic practice explores the intersection of traditional sculpture and digital technology, using 3D printing to create intricate and complex forms that push the boundaries of what is possible in sculpture. His work has been featured in exhibitions and galleries around the world, and he is widely recognized as a pioneer in the field of 3D printed art. With his innovative approach and mastery of 3D printing technology, Harker has opened up new possibilities for artistic expression and expanded the definition of what sculpture can be.
Website: https://www.joshharker.com/
"Monocoque" by Neri Oxman. a: 13 × 7 1/4 × 8 in. b: 13 × 7 1/4 × 8 in. c: 3 1/4 × 14 × 5 in. 3D printed multicolored Vero acrylic polymer. 2007.
Neri Oxman is a designer, architect, and professor at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Media Lab, known for her groundbreaking work in the field of material ecology. Her work explores the intersection of design, biology, and engineering, with a focus on creating sustainable, environmentally-friendly solutions for architecture and product design. Oxman is also recognized as a pioneer in the use of 3D printing technology, using it to create intricate and organic forms that are inspired by nature. Her work has been exhibited at museums and galleries around the world, and she is widely regarded as one of the most influential designers working today.
Website: https://oxman.com
"Nesurak" by Nick Ervinck. 40.9 x 19.3 x 21.3 inches. 3D print. 2016 - 2017.
Nick Ervinck is a contemporary Belgian artist known for his vibrant and surreal sculptures, installations, and digital artworks. His artistic practice combines traditional sculptural techniques with cutting-edge digital technology, including 3D printing, to create works that challenge and expand our understanding of form, space, and materiality. Ervinck's work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and he is recognized as a leading figure in the field of 3D printed art, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in terms of scale, complexity, and innovation.
Machines for Suffering I" by Sophie Kahn. 24 x 35 x 47 in (without base). 3D print (laser-sintered nylon) from 3D laser scan, gesso and acrylic paint on custom pedestal. 2018.
Sophie Kahn is a contemporary artist based in New York City, whose work explores the intersection of technology and the human form. Her practice spans a range of media, including sculpture, installation, and video, and often incorporates 3D scanning and printing techniques to create stunningly intricate and lifelike forms. With her innovative use of 3D printing technology, Kahn has been at the forefront of a new wave of artists exploring the possibilities of digital fabrication, and her work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world. In her work, Kahn often addresses themes related to gender and identity, using technology to challenge traditional notions of the body and its representation.
Lesson plans:
Example of some different rings
This art lesson focuses on teaching students how to create unique and personalized jewelry pieces using 3D printing technology. Through this lesson, students will learn the basics of 3D printing and digital design software, and how to use them to create customized jewelry. They will experiment with different materials, colors, and finishes, and learn how to post-process and assemble their 3D printed jewelry pieces. Additionally, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by reflecting on their design process, testing and refining their ideas, and making adjustments based on feedback and evaluation.
Example of 3D printed architecture
This art lesson plan is focused on exploring the relationship between architecture and 3D printing technology. Students will learn about the principles of architecture and design and how they can be applied to digital design software and 3D printing. They will create architectural models and structures using this technology and experiment with different materials, colors, and finishes. There could be a challenge posed for this assignment such as building the tallest tower that could withstand a earthquake. The lesson will also teach students how to post-process and assemble their 3D printed structures. Through this lesson, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by reflecting on their design process, testing and refining their ideas, and making adjustments based on feedback and evaluation.
General Reflection:
Creating sea urchin shells using 3D printing was an exciting and rewarding art project. I really appreciate this project because i feel like it helped push me to explore the possibilities of 3D printing as an artistic medium and opened up a new dimension of creativity. Before this project, I had never gone to the MIX before or done any 3D printing, so now I feel a lot more well versed in this medium.
When reflecting on this project, I feel that in terms of teaching applications, 3D printing can be used in many educational contexts and can easily be used to connect STEM classes to art ones. By incorporating 3D printing in the classroom, students can learn about design, engineering, and problem-solving skills while fostering creativity. However, I am unsure of how practical it may actually be because I noticed while printing out my object, it can take a few hours to days to print out one project based on size and complexity. When you have multiple classes of 30 plus students, this time can quickly add up. Additionally, 3D printers can range in price from a few hundred to several thousand dollars.
The future of art and technology is rapidly evolving, and 3D printing is becoming an increasingly popular tool for artists. With advancements in technology, artists can now create complex and intricate designs that were once impossible to achieve. Knowing how to 3D print can provide artists with a competitive edge in this upcoming climate, allowing them to push boundaries and experiment with new techniques, resulting in unique and innovative works of art. So while I don't think it would be practical to get a 3D printer for elementary aged students, it can be very beneficial to consider at lest having access to one for secondary school students.
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