Introduction to 3D Modeling and Printing
Details
In this introductory class, we'll be reviewing the basics of creating 3D models that are designed for 3D printers. The software and platforms we will be using are all free to use and ideal for first time users.
The course will be split into two portions. The first two hours will focus on the user interfaces for three modeling programs: Tinkercad, OpenSCAD, and Blender. In each program, we'll learn how to manipulate 3D objects via scaling, rotation, and boolean operations. We'll cover how to export geometry (STL) files from each platform and load them into the slicing software, Cura, to generate the instructions (gcode) file for the 3D printer. Finally, we'll talk about how to load that file up into the 3D printer for printing.
The second half of the course will be an open workshop where everyone can try modeling something on their own. The instructor will be available to answer questions and assist.
Requirements (Please bring a OSX or PC laptop with the following software installed and a mouse with a scroll wheel):
tinkercad.com (create a free account to use)
openSCAD: http://www.openscad.org/
Blender: https://www.blender.org/download/