Three Rings

Additive Manufacturing

Three Rings

 Introduction
The following project report presents an exploration of 3D Printing,
focusing on a 3D Printing project titled "3 Rings." This project required the
design and creation of a 3D Model using Autodesk Fusion software. The
report delves into the process of designing the models. Additionally, the
report outlines the subsequent step of transferring the models to a slicing
software, a crucial element in the 3D Printing work low. Once the models
were viewed in the slicing software, they were prepared for printing using the
Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) [Link] its wide range of
applications in industries like automotive, aerospace, healthcare, and
consumer goods, 3D printing has revolutionised prototyping, production,
and product development by streamlining design iterations and enabling
rapid manufacturing.
Fused Deposition Modelling, a widely used additive manufacturing
technique, was employed to bring the 3D model of 3 Rings into its inal form.
The slicing software analysed the design and generated a set of instructions,
known as G-code, that guided the FDM printer. The printer utilised Poly-lactic
Acid ilament, which was melted and extruded layer by layer, gradually
building up the inal physical objects. Throughout the printing process,
parameters such as layer height, print speed, among others were carefully
optimised to ensure high-quality prints. We present to you "3 Rings," a 3D
printing project that introduced us to and helped us have hands on
experience of 3D design and printing.
By implementing this project, we were able to gain fundamental
knowledge of 3D modelling, as well as an understanding of the technical
aspects involved in preparing a model for the printing process. This report
gives an insight into the signi icance of 3D Printing, the speci ic

Three Rings
f
f

f
f
f
implementation of FDM technology, and the value of introductory projects in
fostering skill development and exploration of this emerging technology.

Three Rings

 Theory
3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing, is a revolutionary
technology that enables the creation of three-dimensional objects layer by
layer. It o ers a versatile approach to manufacturing, allowing for the
production of complex and customised designs with ease. The process
begins with a digital model, which is sliced into thin cross-sectional layers.
These layers are then sequentially printed using various materials such as
plastic, metal, or even bio-compatible substances.
In 3D printing, several key pieces of equipment are required for the
process to take place. The primary equipment includes a 3D printer, which is
responsible for creating the physical objects layer by layer. The printer
consists of a build platform or print bed, where the object is constructed,
and a nozzle or extruder that heats and deposits the printing material.
Additionally, a ilament feeder system is used to guide the thermoplastic
ilament into the printer. Some 3D printers also feature a heated print bed to
aid in adhesion. Supporting equipment includes a computer or device for
loading and processing 3D models, as well as software to slice the models
into printable layers.
Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM) is a popular 3D printing technology
that uses a thermoplastic ilament to create objects layer by layer. The steps
involved in FDM 3D printing are as follows:

1. Design Preparation: A 3D model of the desired object is created using

computer-aided design (CAD) software. The model is then prepared for 3D
printing by generating a printable ile format such as STL (Standard
Tessellation Language).

Three Rings
f
ff
f

f
f

 2. Filament Selection and Loading: A suitable thermoplastic ilament is

selected based on the desired properties of the inal object. Common
ilaments include ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene) and PLA (Polylactic
Acid). The ilament is loaded into the 3D printer's ilament feeder system.

3. Print Bed Preparation: The print bed, which serves as the foundation
for the printed object, is prepared. This may involve applying adhesive or
using a heated bed to ensure proper adhesion between the irst layer of the
object and the print bed.

4. Printing Process: The 3D printer heats the ilament to its melting point
and extrudes it through a nozzle. The nozzle moves in a controlled manner,
depositing the molten ilament layer by layer according to the instructions
provided in the 3D model.

5. Support Structures (Optional): For complex or overhanging

geometries, support structures may be generated and printed along with the
object. These temporary structures provide stability during the printing
process and are removed after printing is complete.

6. Cooling and Solidi ication: As each layer is deposited, the molten

ilament quickly cools and solidi ies, bonding with the previous layers. This
process is repeated until the entire object is printed.

7. Post-processing: Once the printing is complete, the object may require

post-processing. This can include removing any support structures, sanding
or smoothing rough surfaces, and applying inishing touches such as
painting or polishing.

Three Rings
f
f
f
f

f
f
f
f
f

f
f

 FDM 3D printing o ers a relatively simple and cost-e ective method for
creating functional prototypes, tools, and low-volume production parts. It has
found applications in various industries, including engineering, product
design, education, and rapid prototyping.

After analysing a 3D model in a slicing software, optimisation can be

performed by adjusting various parameters to achieve desired printing
results. One important parameter is layer height, which determines the
thickness of each printed layer. A smaller layer height enhances the object's
level of detail but increases printing time. Other parameters include in ill
density, which determines the internal structure of the object, support
structures for overhangs or complex geometries, print speed for faster or
more precise prints, and wall thickness for object strength. Balancing these
parameters is crucial to achieve optimal print quality, functionality, and
e iciency in the 3D printing process.

Three Rings
ff
ff

ff
f
 Methodology
1. Research and Familiarisation:
We engaged in thorough research to gain a comprehensive understanding of
3D Printing, its applications, and the speci ic requirements of the project.
Familiarised ourselves with Autodesk Fusion software, its tools, and
functionalities. Acquired knowledge about slicing software and fused
deposition modelling suitable for the project.

2. Design Phase:
a. Conceptualisation: Brainstormed ideas for the three rings, considering
design elements such as shape and size.
b. Autodesk Fusion Software: Launched Autodesk Fusion and created new
design project, paying attention to dimensions, proportions, and details.

3. Model Re inement:
a. Iterative Design: Review and re ine the 3D model, ensuring they met the
desired speci ications. Made necessary adjustments to enhance the
aesthetic appeal.
b. Feedback and Iteration: Sought feedback from peers and mentors to gain
valuable insights and suggestions. Incorporated feedback into the designs,
iterating as needed.

4. Slicing Software and 3D Printing Preparation:

a. Slicing Software Selection: Chose a suitable slicing software based on
compatibility and desired features.
b. Importing the Models: Imported the 3D models from Autodesk Fusion into
the slicing software.

Three Rings
f
f

 c. Slicing Parameters: Adjusted parameters such as layer height, in ill density,

support structures, and print speed for optimal printing quality and
e iciency.
d. G-Code Generation: Generated G-code instructions using the slicing
software, which guided the 3D printer during the printing process.

5. Printing and Post-Processing:

a. 3D Printer Setup: Prepared the 3D printer, ensuring it was calibrated and
had the appropriate ilament loaded. This was done under the supervision of
the lab instructor.
b. Post-Processing: Once the printing was complete, we removed the printed
rings from the printer and performed necessary post-processing tasks such
as removing support structures, sanding, and polishing to achieve the
desired inish.

6. Evaluation and Quality Assurance:

Visual Inspection: Examined the printed rings for visual defects, accuracy,
and overall quality.

7. Documentation and Reporting:

Documented the entire project process, including design iterations, printing
parameters, challenges faced, and solutions implemented. Created a
comprehensive project report, outlining the methodology, results, and
insights gained throughout the project.

Three Rings
ff
f