3D Printing in the Classroom. 2 Micromanufacturing Current micromanufacturing methods make relatively flat objects –alignment of layers hard to achieve.

3D Printing in the Classroom

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Micromanufacturing

• Current micromanufacturing methods make relatively flat objects– alignment of layers hard to

achieve– process very complex and

expensive

• Flat objects called 2-D or 2.5-D

The Challenge: Lack Truly 3-D Microfabrication MethodsThe Challenge: Lack Truly 3-D Microfabrication Methods

Example of 2.5D objects

The Solution: Microstereo LithographyThe Solution: Microstereo Lithography

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3-Dimensional Printing

• Work of Professor Nicholas Fang in nanoscale optical imaging

• Idea is to mimic a complicated and expensive lab setup in an inexpensive way

• Use equipment normally found in a school classroom

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3-Dimensional Printing

• So, can’t take $ 500,000 machine into classroom – what can students do?

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In the Classroom

• Uses materials readily available to teachers– Materials for elevators available at hardware stores

• Successfully done in several classrooms• Appropriate for multiple disciplines

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3-Dimensional Printing

computer with PowerPoint image

data projector

magnifying glassmirror

elevatorproduct (3-d object)

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Light-Activated Polymer

• uv light reacts with initiator to create two radicals

• Radicals each have single free electron

+

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Light Activated Polymer

• Radical bonds with monomer

• Now single free electron at end of chain

+

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Light Activated Polymer

• Repeats until two ends with free electrons interact and bond

+

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Elevator Design

• Drawer slide provides smooth movement

• T-nut and threaded screw controls motion

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Slicing the 3D Object

• 3D object are constructed by slices

• Overlapping between layers is generally required

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Examples of Objects

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Examples of Objects

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Examples of Objects

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Examples of Objects

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Examples of Objects

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Examples of Objects

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Examples of Objects