Last week I introduced slicing and CAD software, two key ingredients in a custom 3D Print. This week I’m going to cover the actual use of your machine, how to view and find 3D models, and venture into the still-budding world of DIY 3D scanning. Just like last time, all services listed are free (at least to a certain extent).
Let’s be honest, 3D CAD (computer aided design) is challenging to learn. Training your brain to manipulate and visualize parts in three dimensions is a learned skill. So where do you start? Thankfully, there’s a multitude of free tools available for everyone to try their hand at 3D design. And many of them don’t even require a download anymore. A simple web app will get you pretty far.
I’ve compiled the best resources I know of for dealing with 3D parts and I will list them here in two parts. This week I’m going to focus on 3D part creation and slicing, the two first steps in printing out a part on a 3D printer. Everything listed is free to use (at least to a certain extent)
An Instrument for the Sonification of Everday Things is an electronic device that consists of a retractable spindle that will accept most any readily available item. Then a scanning laser reads the distance of the object as it rotates and translates that data into musical notes.
Ask MAKE is a monthly column where we answer your questions. Send your vexing conundrums on any aspect of making to askmake@makezine.com. If we don’t have the answer, we’ll scare up somebody who does.
EagleUp is the work of Swiss design engineer Jerome Lamy. It runs inside SketchUp and requires co-installation of ImageMagick. The script will automatically generate a 3D model of a printed circuit board from an image exported by Cadsoft Eagle, then populate it with preexisting component models.
Using contact mics that detect hand gestures through the aid of software, the Mogee is an electronic musical instrument that can be appended to virtually any rigid object.
Of course the most prominent feature of VCarve Pro is it’s ability to make designs using a v-shaped cutting bit. You can easily generate g-code for sign and texture creation as well as engraving tool paths. The software automatically calculates the depth for the v-shaped bit to give sharp corners and intricate lines. Also, colors can be added to each toolpath to allow customers to preview the finished product.
