> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://monasheng.gitbook.io/zerotohero/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://monasheng.gitbook.io/zerotohero/3d-printing-zero-to-hero.md).

# 3D Printing Zero-to-Hero

{% embed url="<https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OQA4EUK06Ek>" %}

3D Printing is a revolutionary manufacturing technique that enables the production of complex, custom, and precise objects from digital 3D models. Due to it's accessibility, low cost, and low barrier-to-entry, 3D printing has become a cornerstone of the emerging maker culture. Democratised manufacturing like this means it is now easier than ever to turn a concept into a physical prototype, even from the comfort your home!

## Learning Outcomes

In this short course, you'll learn:

* [x] how 3D Printers work, and the wide range of potential use cases for them,
* [x] how to design parts with 3D Printing in-mind, including provision for tolerances,
* [x] about the 3D Printing *workflow* - how to turn your digital models into real-world objects,
* [x] how to select 3D Printing settings using *slicer software* to vary surface finish, print time, strength, and stiffness of your parts,
* [x] how to supplement 3D printing with conventional manufacturing techniques (including glueing and plastic welding) to make complex parts.

## Module Capstone Project

The capstone project for this module entails 3D Printing a plastic hook that can:

* Carry an $$8;\text{kg}$$ test load,&#x20;
  * while adhering to strict limitations on surface finish, print time, and material usage.

You will use your newly-developed printing expertise to overcome these challenging constraints.

<figure><img src="/files/pleEbKrAB7ijFLxpJTNO" alt=""><figcaption><p>The standard lifting hook that you will print for the module capstone project, complete with an intentional stress-raising notch to increase the challenge!</p></figcaption></figure>

## Acknowledgements

The videos for this module are hosted by Jaryd Giesen, an engineering graduate and former FYP student of Dr Alex Gregg. Jaryd is a maker, [YouTuber](https://www.youtube.com/c/JarydGiesen), and engineering education scholar, [and now an educational technologist at Core Electronics](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t1WRxmG3h3I). You can check out some of Jaryd's work online.

{% embed url="<https://www.pcgamer.com/this-legend-made-a-giant-f-key-that-actually-works/>" %}

{% embed url="<https://www.hackster.io/news/jaryd-giesen-s-giant-game-boy-color-turns-retropie-into-a-fully-functional-oversized-wearable-03d42cfe2198>" %}

{% hint style="warning" %}
:books: **Resource:** This module was not created in a vacuum. Information was drawn, summarised, and refactored from a variety of sources - all of which are great review/summary/extension resources for the interested reader:&#x20;

* The [All3DP website](https://all3dp.com/), which has countless guides and articles about 3D printing,
* The official Prusa [website](https://monasheng.gitbook.io/zerotohero/www.prusa3d.com) and [YouTube](https://www.youtube.com/@Prusa3D/featured) channel,
* Stefan Hermann's YouTube channel [CNC Kitchen](https://www.youtube.com/@CNCKitchen/featured), which is home to many educational and experimental printing videos, and,
* Angus Deveson's YouTube channel [Maker's Muse](https://www.youtube.com/@MakersMuse/videos).
  {% endhint %}