Library Locations | Ask a Librarian | CCSF Home3d Print Technologies and Projects
We are using the following tools, technologies, and supplies.
Design Software: Tinkercad
Slicing (File Preparation) Software: Makerbot Print or CloudPrint
3d Printers: Makerbot Replicator+
3d Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) or Fused Filament Fabrication. It is an additive process.
Type of Filament: Polylactic Acid (PLA). It is a corn or sugar based thermoplastic. It is commercially compostable. It will deteriorate over time, heat will warp it, and is not food safe.
The Process.. In a Nutshell
Day 1
Create a 3d file in Tinkercad.
Day 2
Prepare the file:
It must be in .STL format.
Use Makerbot slicing software to prepare the file for the 3d printer.
Change settings as appropriate in slicer software.
Export the prepared file as .makerbot to a flash drive.
Prepare the machine:
Turn on.
Load the filament you want to use.
Prepare the print bed if needed.
Load file and start print.
Watch periodically to make sure it is printing as expected.
Autodesk Tinkercad
Tinkercad is a free 3d design platform where you can create or modify 3d design files.
It is great for those new to 3d design and for fun learning for a wide range of age groups. There are practice projects and some readymade designs and design elements. You can do a lot of cool things in Tinkercad!!! Autodesk has other software for 3d professionals.
During Day 1, we will do the following:
Create your Tinkercad account - choose personal account
Complete the Tinkercad Basic 3d Tutorials - start with Place it and continue until you complete
Create two projects:
Note: In the demo, the light stand is found under Assemblies. It is now in a section called Electronics.
Create your Thingiverse account. You will need this tomorrow. Explore Thingiverse and save at least 3 files as favorites.
If you have time -
Challenge: Export a .stl file from Thingiverse and import into Tinkercad. Modify the file by adding, removing, resizing or otherwise altering the file.
Other Things to Try
Search the library collection for Maker related books, videos, more.
Explore the Collaboratory and ask questions.
Check out the Gallery.
What interests you? Let your curiosity take a look around Thingiverse and Tinkercad.
Try some other 3D databases.
Check out the CCSF 3d Manual.
Day 2
Part 1 Prepare your file
There are two slicer programs you can use: Makerbot Print and Makerbot CloudPrint. We will use CloudPrint. This will enable your access to the print software and allow you to save and share files in Thingiverse.You will be able to use the logins you created for Thingiverse.
Export your file from Tinkercad as an stl file.
Go to CloudPrint to prepare your file. Log in using your Thingiverse logins.
Here is a video of how I prepped my file.
Basic print file setup:
File format will be *.makerbot
Save to flash drive with your name as the file name if someone else will be printing it.
Part 2 Print your file
Turn on 3d printer.
Set up filament as needed. Make sure print bed is prepped with painter's tape.
Insert flash drive into printer USB slot.
Choose the file to print from the printer menu and start the print process.
Check on file periodically to make sure it is printing as expected.
When you are not printing:
Try a different tool in the collaboratory.
Explore Thingiverse
Try Blender
Ponder the universe!
Projects
Thingiverse Education
https://www.thingiverse.com/education
Nasa 3d Models
https://nasa3d.arc.nasa.gov/models
African Fossils
Community Access to 3d Printers
3d Printing at SFPL
https://sfpl.libanswers.com/faq/191002
South San Francisco Library
https://www.ssf.net/departments/library/services/technology-learning-center
San Mateo County Libraries