In the third week we learned about the foundamentals of 3D printing. The lecture introduced 3D printing as an additive manufacturing process that builds objects layer-by-layer, contrasting it with subtractive manufacturing, which removes material from a block. We learned this additive method is particularly well-suited for creating complex, custom, or tailor-made parts. The workflow requires a "slicer" to convert a 3D model into 2D layers (G-Code) , a process that involves setting crucial parameters like layer height, infill, shells, and supports.
At the end of the lecture we have been tasked to create our own 3D modell to print. We were free to modell whatever we wanted, but it had to be something which would not be easier to create with a subtraktive technique. In the following part I will show step by step what I created.
Step 1: Concept and setup
The first thing to do was come up with an idea of what to modell. Even though it would have been nice to create something that I can later use for my final project I sadly dont think I will 3D print anything for it. Because of that I thought for a while what I wanted to make and finally decided to create a small vase. I created a new Fusion project and started modelling.
Step 2: Create a sketch
After coming up with an idea the next part was to turn it into something. I started with creating a sketch of an hexagon, which will be used as the ground of the vase.
Step 3: Creating an offset plane
Step 4: Setup the offset plane
In the following steps I will need to create a second sketch 5 centimeters higher than the first one. The easiest way for me was to create an offset plane. This is a construction which I can later use to create a new sketch at the exact height I want. For now I select the original sketch, press create offset plane and put in 50mm as the offset.
Step 5: Offset plane is created
Step 6: Copy the original sketch
Step 7: Create a second sketch
Now I will press create sketch while having the offset plane selected. This will mean the new skecth is placed exactly 50mm higher tahn the first one.
Step 8: Pasting in the first sketch into the second one
Step 9: Pressing the M key and rotating the new sketch by 30 degrees
Step 10: Applying the rotation
Step 11: Finishing the sketch
Step 12: Selecting the "Loft" tool
The "Loft" tool lets you select two different objects or sketches and will try to create a new object by connecting them.
Step 13: Selecting the two sketches as profile one and two and applying the "Loft".
Now both of the sketches are connected and I have created a new object, which is supposed to ressemble the vase. The rotation that was done earlier gives the vase a special shape.
Step 14: Using the "Shell" tool
Right now the vase is still closed, which we obviously dont want. Because of that I use the shell modifier on the top side of it. This will create an opening at the top.
Step 15: Choosing the thickness of the shell (in my case 3mm)
Step 16: Exporting the fusion file to a slicing software and selecting the right printing settings
Step 17: Slicing the project
Step 18: The final outcome
Sadly I was not able to film the printing process, below you can see the final form of the vase.
