TUTORIAL
An introduction to functional 3D printing
ome with me, and you’ll be in a
world of pure imagination...”.
With 3D printing, if you can
imagine it, you can print it (within
reason of course). One limitation
is the ability to use 3D modelling
software. Take it from us that 3D modelling really
isn’t as hard as it looks and, thankfully, functional
prints are significantly easier than, say, sculpting a
detailed action figure. There are however important
paradigms that should be followed to make the most
out of our new creations. We’re going to use Fusion
360 to run through how we designed our ring mounts
to make a floating herb garden, show you how to
add modifications to make them work in different
scenarios, and introduce you to some important 3D
modelling concepts along the way.“
C
Learn key aspects of functional design while recycling plastic pots
An introduction to
functional 3D printing
Right
Making a floating herb
garden is just one of
infinite applications
of these essential 3D
modelling tipsIn issue 28 of HackSpace, we gave you an
introduction on how to use Fusion 360, using a vase
as an example. While that knowledge is a good
foundation for this tutorial, you should be able to
follow along fine without it. If you’re completely new
to Fusion 360, you’ll be glad to know that it’s free for
hobbyists – you just need to sign up and download it
from this link: hsmag.cc/Kbg7lE. While Fusion 360
is downloading, you can start to take the physical
measurements we’ll need to make our functional print.
Digital callipers are great here as we can use them to
conveniently and accurately measure objects/gaps/hole
diameters etc., but for this project, a ruler is fine.SAGE AGAINST THE MACHINE
Using our pots as an example, we first need to
measure the diameter of the pot for the main ringGlenn Horan
Glenn is a software
developer by day and a
3D printing enthusiast
by night. Rumour has
it that building and
troubleshooting cheap
Prusa clones is what
caused him to go bald
before his years.@BatGlenn13