Hello everyone,
It was another busy week in the 3D Lab which is amazing for the summer session. We are teaching staff and community members how to use the laser engraver for a variety of needs. It is also a way to observe how it is used, aiding in developing usage and safety procedures. The summer break provides time to write documentation, signs, and posters to make the lab easier to use. Our first 3D printer (the Makerbot Replicator 2X) is in need of repair, so that is a project as well. There is always something that needs improved or fixed in that lab; though these are perfect learning experiences for our students and lab staff.
A while ago, Chris purchased and assembled a tri-copter drone from a kit. It is an amazing machine and flies well. But with most model aircraft, it’s seen a fair share of crashes, too. One of the propeller motor mounts broke during a particularly harsh crash. Instead of ordering a replacement part, Chris designed a replacement in CAD software then 3D printed it. Now he’s back in business with minimal downtime.
The laser engraver is frequently used throughout the week. Not only by students, lab staff, and college personnel, but by the community as well. Representatives from the Wayne County Public Library brought kid-friendly robots to be engraved with the library’s emblem. We found that applying a laser on soft plastic was tricky. The beam intensity had to be low enough not to melt the plastic, but strong enough to engrave an image. They learned much and were pleased with the results.
Earlier this week, community members visited the 3D Lab to learn and use the engraver. They were excited about the opportunity and tried their skills on a number of materials generously furnished by P. Graham Dunn. They had an absolutely wonderful time and wish to come back for more time in the lab! Together, we also learned how to use the rotary attachment that allows engraving onto cylindrical objects such as glasses, bottles, and more. It was very easy to use.
Now into the fourth week of our Summer Camp for kids, the activity was assembling plane parts cut from the laser cutter. Instructor Chris brought a couple of community members and myself to assist, which involved careful use of hot glue. In addition to coloring the planes with markers, kids used the vinyl cutter to create decals for the wings and bodies. They had a fun time and were proud of their planes finally taking shape.
Stay tuned next week as kids learn how to fly virtual radio controlled aircraft in a computer flight simulator!
See how Disney Research invented a 3D printer for electrically conductive fabric. Imagine teddy bears that have a life of their own!
http://www.gizmag.com/layered-fabric-3d-printer/37109
Want to design jewelry that is uniquely you? This website creates custom bracelets which can be 3D printed:
http://n-e-r-v-o-u-s.com/kinematicsHome
Until next week,
Tom