3D Printing: From Beginner to Expert

Course Description

Welcome to the exciting world of 3D printing! This comprehensive online course, offered by AlaskaX, is designed to transform complete beginners into skilled 3D printing enthusiasts. Over three engaging modules, you'll embark on a fascinating journey that will guide you through the entire process of bringing your ideas to life using cutting-edge 3D printing technology.

What You'll Learn

  • Master the fundamentals of 3D design using Autodesk Tinkercad
  • Understand file types and slicing software for 3D printing
  • Learn to operate and troubleshoot various 3D printers
  • Gain knowledge about different filament types and their properties
  • Develop problem-solving skills for common 3D printing challenges
  • Create personalized 3D objects from concept to finished product

Prerequisites

This course is designed for absolute beginners, so there are no specific pre-requisites or prior skills required. All you need is a curiosity about 3D printing and a willingness to learn!

Course Content

  • Introduction to 3D design principles
  • Autodesk Tinkercad basics and advanced features
  • Creating and manipulating 3D objects
  • Understanding file types for 3D printing
  • Using slicing software (e.g., Ultimaker Cura)
  • Adjusting printer settings for optimal results
  • Properties and uses of various filament types (PLA, ABS, TPU, PET-G, PUI, Nylon)
  • Operating networked and standalone 3D printers
  • Troubleshooting common 3D printing issues
  • Practical projects: Designing a keychain and personalized makercoin

Who This Course Is For

  • Beginners curious about 3D printing technology
  • Hobbyists looking to expand their creative skills
  • Professionals seeking to add 3D printing to their skill set
  • Students interested in product design or engineering
  • Anyone who wants to learn how to bring their ideas into the physical world

Real-World Applications

  • Product design and prototyping for entrepreneurs and inventors
  • Creating custom parts for home repairs or improvements
  • Developing unique gifts or personalized items
  • Enhancing educational experiences in STEM fields
  • Exploring new career opportunities in manufacturing and design
  • Contributing to robotics and automation projects
  • Participating in the growing maker community

Syllabus

Section 1: Tinkercad Design

  • Introduction to Autodesk Tinkercad
  • Basic functions: Adding, resizing, creating holes, and grouping objects
  • Advanced tools: Mirroring, aligning, and importing .SVG files
  • Project: Designing a personalized keychain
  • Project: Creating a unique makercoin

Section 2: Slicing a 3D Object

  • Understanding file types for 3D printing
  • Introduction to slicing software (Ultimaker Cura)
  • Adjusting printer settings: Supports, infill density, print temperature, etc.
  • Exploring filament types: PLA, ABS, TPU, PET-G, PUI, and Nylon
  • Optimizing designs for printing

Section 3: 3D Printing

  • Operating networked and standalone 3D printers
  • Printing your makercoin project
  • Troubleshooting common printing issues
  • Problem-solving techniques for print failures
  • Understanding the fundamentals of additive manufacturing in FDM 3D printers

By the end of this course, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to operate any modern 3D printer, from Bambu to AnkerMake to Ultimaker to Prusa. Join us on this exciting journey to unlock your creativity and bring your ideas to life, one layer at a time!