3D Printing - Intro and Basics

How to 3D print in the MiLL and Think Tank

1. Introduction to 3D Printing
[0:00 - 0:34] What is 3D Printing? Explanation of how 3D printers work, using filament to build objects layer by layer.
[1:53 - 2:03] Why 3D Printing? Benefits of 3D printing for prototyping and complex shapes.

2. Finding and Preparing Models
[4:30 - 5:43] Finding Existing Models Using websites like Thingiverse and Thangs.com to find STL files for 3D printing.
[6:00 - 6:31] Designing Custom Models with Tinkercad: Overview of using Tinkercad to design and export custom 3D models.

3. Slicing the Model
[0:37 - 1:02] What is Slicing Software? How slicing software turns 3D models into printable layers.
[7:05 - 8:03] Manipulating Models in FlashPrint: Moving, rotating, scaling, and cutting models within FlashPrint.
[8:50 - 10:01] Adding Supports for Overhanging Parts: How to add supports for models with overhangs or complex shapes.
[12:09 - 12:24] Slicing and Exporting the Model: Final steps for slicing the model and saving it to a USB drive for printing.

4. Filament and Printer Maintenance
[1:32 - 1:46] Filament Storage and Maintenance: Importance of storing filament in dry environments to avoid moisture damage.
[14:30 - 15:38] Loading and Unloading Filament: Detailed guide on changing filament in the printer, including cutting and inserting the filament.

5. Starting the 3D Print
[19:00 - 20:14] Starting a Print with a USB Drive: How to load the sliced file from a USB drive and start printing on the machine.
[21:25 - 22:16] Monitoring Print Times and Respecting Other Users

6. Troubleshooting Common Issues
[21:00 - 21:18] Fixing Build Plate Adhesion Issues: How to troubleshoot if a print isn’t sticking to the build plate, including cleaning and using adhesive.