[DL63] Printing Our First onshape Models

M3D DesignLab DesignLab Grade 6
1

Session 3: “Printing Our First Models”

Architect:
Syed Shayaan Haider - Markhor3D

Session Overview

In this session, Grade 6 students will transform their 3D models into physical objects by preparing them for printing. They will learn how to export their completed OnShape models using the parts menu and the right-click export method, and then set them up in the slicing software. Students will observe the 3D printer in action as it builds their designs layer by layer, gaining a clear understanding of the printing process.

Placeholder for OnShape export demonstration image: [Google Image Search “OnShape parts menu export”]
Placeholder for slicing software interface: [Google Image Search “Cura slicing interface”]
Placeholder for 3D printer layer by layer image: [Google Image Search “3D printer layer by layer”]

Learning Objectives

By the end of this session, students will be able to:

  • Export Models as STL Files: Learn how to export their OnShape designs.
  • Set Up Models in Slicing Software: Import the exported STL files into the slicer and adjust basic settings such as layer height, infill density, and supports.
  • Understand the 3D Printing Process: Observe how a 3D printer builds objects layer by layer, transforming digital designs into physical objects.
  • Document Observations: Take notes on the printing process to understand how digital designs translate into real-world objects.

Teaching Aids

Visual Aids:

  • Placeholder: [Google Image Search “OnShape parts menu export”] – An image showing how to select a part in the parts menu and use the right-click export option.
  • Placeholder: [Google Image Search “Cura slicing interface”] – A screenshot of the slicing software with key settings highlighted.
  • Placeholder: [Google Image Search “3D printer layer by layer”] – A diagram or video clip showing the 3D printing process.

Required Equipment:

  • Computers or Tablets:
    • One per student or pair, with OnShape open and their completed designs ready.
    • Slicing software (e.g., Cura) installed and ready for use.
  • 3D Printer:
    • A working 3D printer (e.g., M3D Enabler) set up and prepared for live demonstration.
  • Interactive Whiteboard or Projector:
    • For live demonstrations of exporting and slicing.
  • Notebooks and Pens:
    • For students to record observations and take notes.
  • Assistants or Volunteers:
    • Additional support to help guide students through the export and print setup process.

Structure and Lesson Plan (Total Time: 60 minutes)

1. Introduction and Recap (10 minutes)

  • Welcome:
    • “Good morning, everyone! Today, we’re going to see your 3D models turn into real objects through 3D printing.”
  • Recap:
    • “Last session, you finalized your designs in OnShape. Now, we will export these designs and set them up for printing.”
  • Overview:
    • “We will cover how to export your model as an STL file using OnShape’s parts menu, set it up in our slicing software, and then observe the printing process as the printer builds your object layer by layer.”

2. Exporting Your Model as an STL File (15 minutes)

  • Step-by-Step Demonstration:
    1. Highlight the Part:
    • “In OnShape, locate the parts menu on the left side of the screen. Click on the part you want to export.”
    1. Right-Click Export:
    • “Right-click on the selected part and choose ‘Export’ from the context menu.”
    1. Configure Export Settings:
    • “A menu will appear with options to rename your file and choose the file type. Select STL as the file type.”
    1. Download the File:
    • “Click ‘Export’ to download the STL file. The file will be saved in your computer’s Downloads folder.”
    • Placeholder: [Google Image Search “OnShape parts menu export”]
  • Hands-On Practice:
    • “Now, please export your own model following these steps. If you need help, let the instructor know.”

3. Setting Up the Model in Slicing Software (15 minutes)

  • Importing STL File:
    • “Open your slicing software (like Cura). Click on ‘Open File’ or drag and drop your exported STL file into the workspace.”
  • Adjusting Basic Settings:
    • Layer Height: “Set the layer height to 0.15 mm for good detail but a longer print or 0.30 mm for a faster print but coarse details.”
    • Infill Density: “Choose an infill density of about 20–30% to balance strength and material usage.”
    • Supports: “Enable supports if your design has overhangs that need extra support during printing.”
    • An overhang is any part of a 3D design that extends outward without enough support from the layers beneath it. For example, if you’re printing a model of a hand, the fingers that stick out can create overhangs that may droop or collapse during printing. Similarly, a bridge design with a section that juts out without underlying support is also considered an overhang. These areas often need extra support structures or design adjustments to print successfully without sagging.
  • Using the Preview Feature:
    • “After setting these parameters, use the Preview function to see your model sliced into layers. This helps ensure everything looks correct before printing.”
    • Placeholder: [Google Image Search “Cura slicing interface”]
  • Hands-On Practice:
    • “Import your STL file into the slicer, adjust these settings, and use the Preview feature to inspect your model.”

4. Observing the 3D Printing Process (15 minutes)

  • Live Demonstration:
    • “Now that our models are ready in the slicer, I’ll start the print job. Watch how the 3D printer builds your object layer by layer.”
  • What to Observe:
    • “Notice the first layers being laid down, the formation of layer lines, and how supports are built if needed. Pay attention to the overall quality of the print.”
    • Placeholder: [Google Image Search “3D printer layer by layer”]
  • Note-Taking:
    • “Take notes on your observations. What do you notice about the printing speed, the quality of the layers, and the support structures?”
  • Teacher and Assistant Support:
    • Monitor the printer during the demonstration and answer any questions from students.

5. Conclusion and Next Steps (5 minutes)

  • Wrap-Up Discussion:
    • “Today, you learned how to export your OnShape designs as STL files, set them up in slicing software, and observed the 3D printing process. Your careful preparation ensures that your final printed objects will match your digital designs.”
  • Preview of Next Session:
    • “In our next session, we will focus on post-processing your prints, like cleaning up support material and finishing touches.”
  • Closing Encouragement:
    • “Great work today! Your observations and attention to detail will help you make even better models in the future.”

Glossary

  • STL File: A file format that contains the 3D geometry of your model, used for 3D printing.
  • Slicing Software: A program (e.g., Cura) that converts a 3D model into thin layers and generates instructions (G-code) for the printer.
  • Layer Height: The thickness of each individual layer in a 3D print, affecting detail and print time.
  • Infill Density: The percentage of the internal structure of a 3D print, balancing strength and material use.
  • Supports: Temporary structures that help print overhangs and complex parts.
  • Extrusion: The process of adding depth to a 2D sketch to create a 3D object.
  • G-code: The set of instructions that directs the 3D printer on how to build the model layer by layer.
  • Overhang: Any part of a 3D design that extends outward without enough support from the layers beneath it.

For suggestions, improvements, and corrections, feel free to reach out at shayaanhaider@gmail.com