3D Printing
3D Printing in Room 115
You can turn an idea into reality with 3D printing. Whether it is printing a cute balloon dog fidget, designing a custom headphone stand, or mocking up an innovative prototype, The Hatchery (and specifically an STA) is here to help. There are two pathways to getting a print:
- You can meet with an STA and print a project together. This is a great way to gain confidence in using the printers, especially if you are new to printing. You’ll consult on the set-up, color, and size of the item and be walked through the process.
- You can get certified to use the printers whenever you’d like! This option requires meeting with an STA and completing a short Moodle Course. It is great for people who have previously 3D Printed objects and are looking to regularly make more. To get started with this process put in a ticket through Halo and an STA will be in touch to schedule your training.
The Equipment
We have a variety of FDM 3D printers that are available for the Trinity Community to use. Each member is welcome to use 1kg of filament per year at no cost to them. After using 1kg, we ask that students work with us to provide their own filament or reimburse the department. It is a possibility that a print will fail. Please allow ample time before deadlines, always check the print after the first layer for adhesion, and if a clog happens, don’t troubleshoot! Instead, tell an STA or instructional technologist as soon as possible.
Equipment
2- Prusa MK4
2- Prusa MK3 (one with a multi-material kit)
1-Raise 3D Pro
Resources
Finding Printable Objects
There are many online libraries for pre-made printable parts that allow you to print things without having to do any design work. Finding a file is a great way to get started with printing or get inspired. To print, you need to download a .STL file, which can then be sliced and sent to our printers. Try these sources or explore on your own.
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to Make Your Own Object
Computer-Aided Design (CAD) allows you to go beyond printing other people’s designs and allows you to remix/customize designs or make an entirely new object. CAD is a mix of engineering and art and learning how to do it well takes some patience. We recommend using an external mouse for CAD work, which can be checked out from the LITS desk on Level A. Below are some options for CAD platforms that everyone at Trinity can access.
Tinkercad– Great for beginners and an excellent stepping stone to Fusion 360. Also check out A Quick Guide to Tinkercad.
Fusion 360– Industry standard and constraint-based CAD/CAM software. Allows for highly intricate parts and other advanced features. See also A Quick Guide to Fusion360
