Lab Equipment
- 3D Printers
- 3D Scanning
- Routers + Mills
- Laser Cutters
- Blade Cutter
- Maker Workshops
- Wire Bending
FDM Plastic 3D Printers
ORIGINAL PRUSA I3 MK3S+ 3D PRINTERS [12]
The maximum build chamber for models to be made on the machine is (safe put 1cm margin):
x-axis – 250mm (9.84 inches) | y-axis – 210mm (8.3 inches) | 210mm (8.3 inches)
ORIGINAL PRUSA MINI+ 3D PRINTERS [10]
The maximum build chamber for models to be made on the machine is (safe put 1cm margin):
x-axis – 180mm (7 inches) | y-axis – 180mm (7 inches) | 180mm (7 inches)
Monoprince MP10 [3]
(With 0.8mm nozzles for rapid lo-res prototyping)
x-axis – 300mm (11.81 inches) | y-axis – 300mm (11.81 inches) | 400mm (15.74 inches)
File Preparations
3D print jobs are managed through the 3DPrinterOS.
File Review
Poorly prepared files will cause delays in processing, and failures in the software used to convert files to machine code. If you have any questions regarding your model and proper processing please schedule a remote meeting with DFL staff using the online scheduler. The following are general guidelines for file preparation:
- Make sure that print job is a single object and is a “closed” or “solid” object/mesh/polysurface.
- Avoid multiple “intersecting” closed objects.
- Check that all surfaces are facing outward. (Rhino: “dir” command arrows point outward, “flip” if necessary).
- Be sure that the object is oriented with a flat surface on the Z plane – not “floating in space”. The flat surface should be at least 10mm (may vary according to the model).
- Avoid trying to print a “tree” with a small base and branches above.
- For thin walls make sure that they are at a minimum of 1.6mm in thickness, 2mm is preferred.
- At file review, bring both the original file and the .stl (stereolithography) in a folder for ease of copying to the DFL 3D user database.
- Avoid overhangs that are greater than 45° or plan to use support material, which can increase print time and/or cost.
- Use inches or millimeters as the units of measurement to ensure proper scale.
- Keep finished size 5” (127.0mm) and under will diversify the number of machines available to print the model and to reduce print time and/or cost.
- Avoid large (>7 inches 170mm) square or rectangular bases that cover nearly the whole bed. These are are more difficult to start and are more prone to warping and print failure.
- Breaking up larger models into parts that can be easily printed and reassembled is highly recommended, and may sometimes be required.
- The Great Guide to Gluing and Assembling 3D Prints – Prusa Printers
Required for File Processing
If you would like advice from staff via a remote meeting please provide, via email and or Bbox link, the following below before the meeting:
- You will be expected to provide the final finished dimensions of the model. (Rhino: Use “bounding box” to determine those dimensions).
- Files intended for printing must be saved in the .STL (Stereolithography) format, but please have your original design file available for review.
- For multiple items, export each one as a separate .STL file, unless otherwise instructed.
In Person and Remote Printing
Best practice for successful 3d printing is to send jobs to the printer that may start immediately while you are inside the lab so you can monitor and adjust if necessary the first layer (Links to an external site.) in person. Remote printing is permitted with the understanding that it is the users responsibility to check the print with the software camera. It is especially important to watch for the first full layer, about 10 minutes after the first layer completes successfully and thereafter about an hour in. If printing is normal do nothing. If an error occurs e.g. the first layer is peeling up or the part warps and is coming out of plane and or breaks off the bed cancel the job.
General Que Information
- Jobs will be started in the order they are submitted in the DFL Online 3DPrinterOS.
- The Papercut balance needed for the submitted print job must be present prior to the running of the print of the print. If the balance is not sufficient the user will be notified of the difference and asked to provide the balance needed. The required Papercut balance for the job must be present in the account to be withdrawn when the print starts. This may be delayed if the job is put on the queue and scheduled for later.
- DFL uses PLA (Polylactic Acid) a corn based biodegradable plastic.
There is NO GUARANTEE that items will print successfully, especially the first time, even if review through software or in person staff consultation indicates it might. 3D printing is a process subject to mechanical, heating, weather and other conditions outside of Staff’s control. Models may require several iterations in order to obtain desired results, OR may be deemed “unprintable”. Models may require several iterations in order to obtain desired results or may be deemed “unprintable” by our equipment. Remember that toward the end of a semester many people are using the printers and they are working 24/7 so misprints are to be expected.
NextEngine 3D Scanner Ultra HD [1]
NextEngine delivers high fidelity scanning to a 0.005 inch accuracy ratio. NextEngine has technology that includes a new electro-optical architecture and sophisticated new algorithms that are used for an array of Lasers to scan in parallel.
FILE FORMATS
Scan output to STL, OBJ, VRML, XYZ, and PLY files.
CAUTIONS
This is a laser scanner so avoid looking into the beam.
TUTORIALS
NextEngin 3D Scanner Overview
Scanning process making a bike seat
Scanning with a NextEngine 3D Scanner (Part 1)
Virtual Curation Laboratory: Introduction 01
Virtual Curation Laboratory: Introduction 02
Virtual Curation Laboratory: Introduction 03
Virtual Curation Laboratory: Introduction 04
Virtual Curation Laboratory: Introduction 05
DFL INSTRUCTIONS
Download a pdf with details on the scanner operations
LAB EQUIPMENT
The Lab houses a Techno Isel 3-axis CNC router with a tool changer
FILES AVAILABLE FOR DOWNLOAD
RhinoCAM 2.0 Surfacing Sample
Download this file to see a sample project and use it to insert your own model and stock onto the designated layers. Notice the models of the two tools, be sure that cracks and holes in your model are not too steep or deep to hit the upper part of the tool holder.
Rhino Template for Profiling, Pocketing and Drilling (2.5D)
Download this file to see a sample project and use it to insert your own cut outlines and stock onto the designated layers. Read the notes inside for important layout and preparation guidelines.
SCHEDULING CNC ROUTER JOB
To use the CNC Router, first schedule an general orientation with Staff using a Staff Consultation reservation using the DFL Online Scheduler.Links to an external site. If possible provide a digital model file for review. The CNC has a 4’ x 8’ bed size. Height limitations for the stock/model are more complicated and may vary depending upon project dimensions, tool choice, and tool path design; these are covered in detail during a special CNC orientation. A CNC job has four steps and may require two to three consultations to complete.
- Make the first Staff Consultation Appointment in the online schedulerLinks to an external site. Propose a project and consult on materials and best practices. Learn about machine limits and create a plan for the job with the chosen materials. Plan for purchase of materials from the material store and preparation of stock with Shop if ready.
- Make the second Staff Consultation Appointment. Submit file for model review. Finalize stock prep plans.
- Make the third Staff Consultation Appointment for final model and prepared stock review and processing. Submit file (adjusted if necessary) for processing. If file a stock processing and preparation is successful make an appointment for job to be done from available times.
- Set up with staff and sit for the duration of the CNC job at the appointed time. Clean up CNC room upon completion of job.
CNC MATERIALS
Blue Foam stock (~4″ x 12″ x 24″-Can be set side by side if needed max 24″ x 24″),
Plywood, and wood (bass, poplar, maple) are okay sourced and purchased from the materials store.
Bits: Most all commonly used bits will be provided by the DFL. For unique cuts, specialty bits may be suggested along with ideas on where to purchase them.
DIGITAL FABRICATION LAB
Location
279 Wurster Hall
ROUTERS & MILLS
Techno Isel 3-axis CNC router with tool charger
List of Universal Laser Cutters
ILS with a 24″x48″ bed and two 75 watt lasers
2 PLS-660 with an 18’x32′ bed and 75 watt lasers
VLS-660 with an 18″x32″ bed and 50 watt laser
X-660 with an 18″x32″ bed and 50 watt laser
V-460 with an 18″x24″ bed and a 45 watt laser
Files Available for Download on the DFL bCourse
Laser Template for Rhino
UCP Laser Settings
Approved Laser Cutting Material
Mat Board, Paper, Cardboard and Chipboard
Bass, Poplar, Balsa Wood max thickness 0.25”
Plywood max thickness 0.125” on Machines 1,2,4
Plywood max thickness 0.25” on Machines 3,5,6
Chipboard max thickness 0.0525″
Acrylic max thickness 1/2”
Materials Not Allowed for Laser Cutting
No cutting PVC, Vinyl, HDPE, Co-Poly, Polyester or foam-core
No cutting Polycarbonate
No cutting Masonite, MDF
No cutting hardboard, glass, or uncoated metals
See the full list posted inside the DFL.
Lab Equipment
Zünd S3 M-1600 Blade Cutter
Available tools
EOT- Electric Oscillating Tool: is ideally suited for cutting softer, medium-density materials.
UCT- Unversal Cutting Tool: for through-cutting materials with thicknesses up to approx. 5 mm/3/16“
CTT1- Creasing Tool 1: for processing single-wall corrugated cardboard. This tool accommodates crease wheels with a diameter of 61 mm/2.4” and a width of 20 mm/.8”
CTT2 – Creasing Tool 2: a universally applicable crease tool. It accommodates a wide range of crease wheels
DRT – Driven Rotary Tool: a cutting tool for fabrics and technical textiles, has high processing speeds
MAM-SE – Marker Module Electric: allows for marking and labeling of various materials
Consumables
Users of the Blade Cutter will need to purchase their own base materials to be cut. Staff will purchase the materials specified via Papercut on job approval. The common knives or bits will be provided during Covid-19 modified services.
Files Available for Download
Zund Template
Basic Training Guide
File Preparation
Files must be clean and well-constructed
Include a rectangle indicating the material edge around the parts laid out for cutting
Parts should be spaced ~0.25″ from each other and 0.5″ from the edge of the material
Use as few control points as possible
Small radius curves (e.g. holes) will break the blade and may not be approved
A template is available on this web page
Zund Materials
Museum Board – 4Ply 32″ x 40″
Foam Core Board 32″ x 40″ x 3/16″
Strathmore Bristol 100lb 19″ x 24″
A more comprehensive list of materials that can be cut is made available during in person orientation.
Looking for fun and challenging design/build opportunities? CED’s Fabrication Shop and Digital Fabrication Lab offers Maker Workshops that allow you to explore methods of woodworking, metalworking and digital fabrication in a low-pressure atmosphere with the guidance of expert makers.
- Participants craft sophisticated modern pieces using fundamental fabrication skills.
- Fabrication Shop workshops are designed to give participants of all skill levels increased confidence and competence with analog and power tools.
- Digital Fabrication Lab workshops allow participants to try their hand at the most powerful digital tools commercially available!
- Your take-away is a finished, one-of-a-kind object, as well as a deeper understanding of the materials and tools used in its making plus “Yeah, I made that” bragging rights!
Lab Equipment
1- Pensa Labs DIWire Plus
DIWire is a rapid prototype machine that bends metal wire to produce curves or 2D shapes that can be soldered or clipped together to create 3D structures.
Approved Materials
Use of material depends upon having the appropriate bend head and feed wheels to accommodate the size. We carry wire in the Materials Store:
Steel .125″
Diameter range varies on the material: limit .125″
Maximum diameter for steel: 3.5mm/.125″ Maximum Bend Angle is 135°
Tutorials
Manual User Instruction Guide
Hardware
Advertisement for the DIWire with samples of output
Location of an overview video that shows and provides terms for the system.
Bending methods: 2.5D Bending
Fixing Wire Jams:
Assembly helpers (accessories that are helpful to assemble your creation)
Software
Video 1: Script Mode Introduction
Video 2: Material Profile Introduction
Video 3: Path Mode Introduction
Video 4: Material Profile Demo
Pensa Labs reference guide to wire bending angles: