As discussed in the first meetings the (un)finished article will focus on the process of each skill that we chose to explore, rather than on the finished product. The translation of the process is subject to every individual’s interpretation, which is why an abstract approach will be undertaken.
For the first session, we wanted to explore 3D Printing, and to try to implement the 3D Printing skills on other participant disciplines. We arranged a 3D printing induction session with one of the CAD Lab technicians.
Before we had the induction, we created a small simple hemispheric shape, to set it for printing, to see the process runing. After we prepared the file we had the induction which covered:
-setting up the file correctly so that the machine reads the model without any conflicts
-consider supporting structures where needed. The printer’s noozle is hot as it prints, so it needs a solid base to rest on until it cools down
-consider which 3D printer is suitable for the model you need. The printers in our CAD Lab can print in Plastic (PLA, ABS and Rubber PLa; these are mostly used for simple shaped massings, with medium detailing ability) or Powder (fine detailing, but fragile)
-if it is a complex model, allow testing time
-always discuss with the technician before printing, and see how you can prevent failed prints before even starting modeling
At the end ofthe session we collected our printed hemisphere, which didn’t turn out very well. Because we wanted something that would print quick (preferably by the end of the session), the technician set up the printing noozle at 1mm thickness, compared to 0.4mm that he would normally reccommend. Because the layer was thicker, it allowed the printer to print quicker, but rougher.
After the induction, we all went home and produced a piece of abstract work of our interpretation
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