Looking to get into 3D printing and engineering

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around getting started with 3D printing and engineering, focusing on the initial steps, resources, and considerations for beginners in the field. Participants explore various aspects including building a printer, learning software, and practical applications of 3D printing.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses enthusiasm for learning about 3D printing engineering and seeks guidance on where to start.
  • Another participant suggests resources for building a printer, including links to the RepRap project and forums, and recommends purchasing a kit for ease of use.
  • A participant mentions wanting to create practical items for home use, referencing specific objects they are interested in printing.
  • There is a discussion about the necessity of learning a 3D drafting program, with one participant sharing their struggles with TurboCad.
  • Concerns are raised about the feasibility of printing certain objects, such as electrical plugs, which may require injection molding instead of 3D printing.
  • Some participants caution against prioritizing 3D modeling software learning, emphasizing the steep learning curve associated with both printer hardware and software.
  • One participant highlights the availability of pre-designed objects online, suggesting that beginners can print existing models without needing to design their own initially.
  • Another participant shares their experience with printing various models found online before attempting to create their own designs, noting the cost-effectiveness of printing compared to purchasing items.
  • A light-hearted comment indicates differing interests in the types of devices participants wish to create.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express a range of opinions on the importance of learning 3D modeling software versus utilizing existing models. There is no consensus on the best approach to starting with 3D printing, as some advocate for building a printer while others emphasize the value of pre-existing designs.

Contextual Notes

Participants mention various resources and tools, but there are no definitive steps outlined for beginners. The discussion reflects a variety of experiences and preferences regarding the use of 3D printing technology.

bmminc
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Hey guys :)Can anyone point me in the right direction on where to start with 3D printing engineering? I'm kinda lost but I'm super pumped and very very motivated to learn this stuff!
 
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You want to build one? Or just learn about them?

If it's the former start from here:
http://reprap.org/
Check out the rep rap forum too:
http://forums.reprap.org/
If you want to get straight into printing I would recommend buying a kit, costs a bit more but sourcing parts is an exercise in itself (and often headache inducing..)If it's the latter, textbooks on rapid prototyping will give a good intro to the various types of 3D printing.
 
One thing you'll need is a good working knowledge of a 3D draughting program to drive the printer. I'm going nuts trying to learn TurboCad.
 
The plug is not something you could do with a 3D printer, it's injection moulded around the cables and prongs. Also, mains electricity can kill so best not to play with it unless you are qualified to do so.

I'd be hesitant to recommend learning 3D modelling software too. Getting a handle on the software and hardware of your printer is a steep enough learning curve, getting a well calibrated functional printer is a feat in itself. There are thousands of great objects to print from places like http://www.thingiverse.com/ without having to delve into modelling software at all.
 
billy_joule said:
I'd be hesitant to recommend learning 3D modelling software too. Getting a handle on the software and hardware of your printer is a steep enough learning curve, getting a well calibrated functional printer is a feat in itself. There are thousands of great objects to print from places like http://www.thingiverse.com/
Sure, if you want to be stuck making stuff that you could probably buy with less effort and cost (factoring in the cost of the printer). To do anything useful, you have to be able to design the part that you want the same as if you were to send blueprints to a machine shop.
 
Danger said:
Sure, if you want to be stuck making stuff that you could probably buy with less effort and cost (factoring in the cost of the printer). To do anything useful, you have to be able to design the part that you want the same as if you were to send blueprints to a machine shop.

There is a massive online community of people with 3D printers making and sharing models of things you can't buy (for want of a better term).
I have experience and access to solidworks but The first 100+ objects I printed were models off the net (calibration parts, full set of spare & improved printer parts, gearboxes, peristaltic pump, cable chain, chess set, guillotine (for heatshrink), mecanum wheels etc etc); ie it was sometime before I wanted something that I needed to model myself. Some things I could've ordered online but they often cost an order of magnitude more than my material costs.
 
We apparently don't invent the same sort of devices. :D
 

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