3D Printing

There is something so inspiring about having an idea for a material object, and then designing and printing it into the world.  This course is the ultimate "intro to," and allows students to go from "no experience," to printing actual/cool inventions.  3D printing is where creativity and tech meet, and this course is super fun for techy kids, and creative kids alike.

Recommended Ages: 5-12th Grade

Recommended Number of Credits: 5 credits

1. The Basics
        1.1 What is 3D Printing?
        1.2 What is 3D Printing Used For?
        1.3 Different Types of 3D Printers
        1.4 How They Work
        1.5 How Do They Compare?
2. Know Your Printer
        2.1 Safety
        2.2 Maintenance: General & Print Bed
        2.3 Maintenance: Nozzle & Filament
        2.4 Terminology
3. Printing Materials
        3.1 Common Filament
        3.2 Exotic Filament
        3.3 Fun/Other Filaments
        3.4 Resin
4. The Digital Model
        4.1 Shared Designs
        4.2 Scanning & Copying
        4.3 Design Your Own Model - CAD
        4.4 Slicers & File Types
5.  Preparing the Model
        5.1 Supports & Orientation
        5.2 Layer Height
        5.3 Infill
        5.4 Skirts, Brims, & Rafts
        5.5 Shells Thick
        5.6 Nozzle Size & Type
6.  Printing Your Product (Different Techniques)
        6.1 Model 1 (No Special Techniques)
        6.2 Model 2 (Supports & Orientation)
        6.3 Model 3 (Fine Detail)
        6.4 Model 4 (Brims, Rafts)
        6.5 Model 5 (Extra Strength)
        6.6 Finishing Touches - Post Processing