Learning & Leading Through Technology

Company

AFINIA

www.afinia.com

CUBIFY

www.cubify.com

MAKERBOT

www.makerbot.com

PRINTRBOT

www.printrbot.com

STUFFMAKER

www.3DStuffmaker.com

Also known as desktop fabrication, 3D printing involves creating solid, physical objects from software-generated digital models. These mini-manufacturing machines build objects layer by layer by spraying a medium on a base plate. The models here all use either acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS)—the plastic used for Lego bricks—or the organic substance polylactic acid (PLA) plastic filament, which is made from corn starch, tapioca root, or sugarcane.

3D Printers in the Classroom

Manufacturers already use 3D printers to develop prototypes and spare parts, and medical researchers can “bioprint” human cells that will soon reduce the need for animal testing. For many years, hobbyists used 3D printers they assembled themselves from kits, but today most are available preassembled. In recent years, prices have dropped considerably, putting these machines in reach for individuals and schools.

3D printers can offer an engaging introduction to industrial design and inspire our future inventors and designers. Beginning students can learn how a well-executed two-dimensional plan can evolve into a three-dimensional object by exploring the possibilities at sites such as Thingiverse ( www.thingiverse. com). Advanced students can create their own, more complex models using free software such as Sketchup and 3DCrafter. Fablevision is developing Fab@School Designer, the first digital fabrication software for elementary and middle school students.

The Printing Process

3D printing is a slow process. It can easily take several hours to produce a small item, so you won’t be able to create something in a single class or produce

BUYER’Sguide

one for every student. The process is fascinating, however, and many teachers encourage students to stop by and observe the progress as each layer contributes to a more recognizable product.

All of the printers listed here print one color at a time. The larger printers have safety enclosures, but the smaller (and more affordable) ones require extra caution while printing, as the base plate gets very hot. There may also be a slight odor while a 3D printer is printing, so you shouldn’t use one in a small, unventilated room, such as a closet.

Cost Considerations

All of the models listed here come fully assembled. The Printrbot and Creator also come as kits for about $100 less.

Software is either included or down-loadable for free, and many 3D printers include preprogrammed designs. You will also have to budget for the consumable filaments, which cost $30–$65.

If you want to try the process before you buy a printer, you can submit a design to Cubify ( cubify.com), Shapeways ( www.shapeways.com), or Sculpteo ( www.sculpteo.com), and these services will print it for you for a fee.

Professional Learning

Professional development should be a high priority. Manufacturers offer video and print tutorials as well as tech support via forums, blogs, email, and phone. Maker Media is a global resource supporting professionals, hobbyists, and educators. MAKE Magazine began producing Maker Faire events in 2006 and has played a big part in the budding maker movement. For face-to-face connections and classes, browse hackerspace.org to find a club near you.