Anyone doing 3D printing?

[bob]

I've been looking at 3d printing for years. Generally, it only makes sense for items you want to mass produce, either to sell, or for use as modular components.

So far the price has kept me from exploring it seriously.

 

[nvrr49]

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nvrr49/6894307246/in/photostream
That is a penny in the background, so pretty good detail

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nvrr49/7040401497/in/photostream
a desk chair

http://www.flickr.com/photos/nvrr49/6894305120/in/photostream
gas pump handles, that is pretty fine detail

 

[NYSW F45]

wow that is some incredibly fine detail.

 

[John P]

Nvrr49, those are some impressive models. Care to explain what the design process was, in terms of both the computer work (which I assume was the first step) and then the physical production?

 

[nvrr49]

reply to John P

I do the drawings in Google Sketchup, which is a free download, export the drawing as a 3d file, and upload it to Shapeways.com. They ship the model in about three weeks.

Okay, that is the simple version. More, much more, later this evening, after pizza.

Kent in KC
nvrr49.blogspot.com

 

[nvrr49]

http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6iumz5rorKY/T1Qo2Cp6qXI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/UGl4BW_Im98/s400/ADDSC_0013.JPG

Here is a picture of a chain hoist I had printed. It is based on drawings in an old MR magazine. The I-Beam is 1/4" tall.

 

[nvrr49]

I use Google SketchUp. I got the idea from an article in the NMRA Magazine. It IS addictive. I have a drafting background, that predates computers, but I did take a computer drafting class at Missouri Southern back in the 1990's. In my opinion, SketchUp is easy to learn, and they have GREAT video tutorials. All for FREE. The free version has some limitations, but I have not found anything that I could not work around. SketchUp has a help forum if you need help at any time.

Generally, I draw in full size, then shrink the item to 1/87th scale. I have drawn many thing in 1/87 scale, and personally, I like drawing in metric when I am working from a real part that I have in my hand. I find it easier to work with using a caliper.

Kent in KC
nvrr49.blogspot.com

 

[silverbackman]

Awesome stuff there Kent!

 

[Steve S]

Nice models, Kent. Is that FUD?

Steve S

 

[nvrr49]

Yes, most of the details I make have small enough cross-sections, that using the FUD (Frosted Ultra Detail) material is the only way to go.

Kent in KC

 

[Rico]

This is awesome technology!
Here's a great way to show it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8aghzpO_UZE

 

[NYSW F45]

that is unreal!! And moving parts, i mean how does it not have them sticking?

 

[Steve S]

that is unreal!! And moving parts, i mean how does it not have them sticking?

I wonder how much play is introduced by the need to keep things separate.

Steve S