1 Topic by lucasbuck

  • lucasbuck
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  • Registered: 2014-11-26
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Topic: Question from a teacher

As much as I've read, I'm still a bit out of touch with 3d printing. I'm an elementary teacher, and our PTA would like to do a program after school utilizing 3d printing, prototyping and having students learn 21st century skills.
And, after that goofy sounding statement, I'd be happy to do a program at my school. The reason they asked is I do a lot of art and materials for our district. I use 3ds Max, Poser, etc. Before our PTA spends money on a printer (I was looking at the DaVinci after reading reviews), how feasible is it to import models? The idea was the kids could design things (pencil, paper) and I could do them in Max or something else, and import them. I'm fairly proficient with 3d modelling, but I still can't find information on what I can design in, and them import into the DaVinci software. Thanks for any information. I'd just like to know so they don't buy something that won't word for a program for kids.

2 Reply by n2ri

  • n2ri
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  • From: St Louis MO USA area
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Re: Question from a teacher

most all 3D printers use STL file format to slice and load to print. if you have an STL file you can go to a site like 3dhubs.com and locate a suitable or nearby printer hub reviewing prices, quality etc of the hubs then set up a print job/jobs with them through 3dhubs, pay for printing using Paypal etc. and depending which delivery service chosen either pick finished jobs up at local hub or they ship to you. most can deliver within a week of placing order. I am a hub myself and have completed a few jobs. with customer reviews listed.

Solidoodle 2 with Deluxe kit cover & glass bed with heater. and 2nd board SD2 used not 3rd and alum platform not installed yet still wood. also need cooling fan installed to board. use Repetier Host couple vers. Slic3r also have all free ware STL programs

3 Reply by rawkstar320

  • rawkstar320
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Re: Question from a teacher

You can model the parts in almost any program, as long as it exports an STL file.  (STL is a VERY common file type in 3D printing.)  The Da Vinci software will then IMPORT the STL file, slice it, & print it.  It is actually very easy and straightforward.  The Da Vinci cartridges are very easy to use, and keep everything nice and tidy. (important in a kid setting).  Also at under $500, it *might* not even be the most expensive thing in the classroom!

Of course if you have the time, it would definitely be worthwhile looking at the Solidoodle Press.

Good luck!

4 Reply by Jaeg

  • Jaeg
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Re: Question from a teacher

The Da Vinci would work great I think for this application as its simple to use.  I would recommend using Autodesk 123D Design.  Its free software that is very easy to use.   Depending on your students ages, they should be able to learn the software fairly easily.  123D design exports to the .stl format that the da vinci and every other 3D printer needs.  I find myself opening 123D design to quick design something more than I do solidworks anymore.  The only time I really don't use it anymore is when I need a Helix in the design as so far that is not available in 123D Design.

5 Reply by darkhawk

  • darkhawk
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  • Registered: 2014-10-27
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Re: Question from a teacher

Let me preface this by saying I'm an electrical engineer with a bit of mechanical design experience.

I did a rather long winded review about my experience personally with my Da Vinci 1.0.
https://plus.google.com/114952022129331 … 7Ffc4qVkuy

That should be a public post that you can look at no matter who you are.

I also concur with the user above me that posted about using Autodesk's 123D Design for creating your 3D files. It's a GREAT introductory piece of software for drawing 3D objects. I've used it quite a bit myself, and find it much easier to use than more expensive and complicated programs.

As someone who wasn't trained to use Solidworks or Autocad or any 3D drawing programs, 123D Design is great.