This course teaches participants the fundamentals of 3D modeling and printing, focusing on Tinkercad for design and Cura for slicing. Key technologies include FDM and SLA 3D printers and materials like PLA and ABS. By the end, participants will be able to model, slice, and print their own designs confidently.
Course Overview Table
| Chapter | Details |
| Partner | Ss. Cyril and Methodius University in Skopje, Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Information Technologies |
| Title | Prototyping through 3D modelling and 3D printing |
| Service | Training |
| Target Group | Educational institutions, Researchers, SMEs |
| Format | Workshop |
| Focused on Key Technologies | 3D printing |
| Status | Ready to offer |
| Stakeholders from SME/PA Side | Entities interested in prototyping technologies related to 3D modeling and 3D printing, whether for introducing new products or innovating educational processes. |
| Requirements for Participation | Basic digital skills |
| Estimated Duration | 8 hours |
Description of the Course
This course provides a hands-on introduction to the world of 3D modeling and printing. Starting with Tinkercad, participants will learn how to navigate the interface and create basic models using fundamental tools such as scaling, rotating, and positioning shapes. They will then explore advanced techniques, including combining shapes and using the hole tool for cut-outs, culminating in exporting models for 3D printing in STL format.
The course continues with an overview of 3D printing technologies, focusing on FDM and SLA printers, and materials like PLA and ABS. Participants will gain an understanding of how 3D printing transforms digital models into physical objects, as well as the challenges of calibration, warping, and under-extrusion.
Next, participants will learn to use Cura, a powerful 3D slicer, to prepare their models for printing. This involves configuring the printer profile, adjusting print settings (such as nozzle size and temperature), and slicing the model into layers. The final G-code, generated by Cura, will guide the printer in building the object layer by layer.
Throughout the course, the participants will apply these skills by importing their Tinkercad designs into Cura, slicing them, and exporting the G-code to a 3D printer. By the end, they will have the knowledge to confidently model, slice, and print their own designs, preparing them for real-world 3D printing projects.
Agenda:
Tinkercad Interface and Basic Tools
- Overview of the interface, navigation, and workspace
- Creating basic shapes, scaling, rotating, and positioning objects
- Using grouping and alignment tools
Advanced Modeling Techniques
- Combining and editing shapes for complex designs
- Using the hole tool for cut-outs and creating customized models
- Exporting models for 3D printing (STL files)
3D Printing Technology Overview
- Different types of 3D printers (FDM, SLA) and materials (PLA, ABS)
- Understanding the printing process from digital design to physical object
Preparing Models for 3D Printing
- Printer settings: layer height, infill, supports, and orientation
- Calibration basics and common issues (warping, under-extrusion)
Cura Interface and Setup
- Selecting and configuring printer profiles in Cura
- Importing 3D models and adjusting print settings (nozzle size, temperature, etc.)
Slicing and G-code Generation
- How to slice a model: layer height, infill density, and support generation
- Previewing layers and generating G-code for printing
Slicing and Printing Your Model
- Students import their Tinkercad designs into Cura, adjust settings, and slice
- Exporting G-code to the printer and starting the print process
Additional Course Information
| Category | Details |
| Developed skills | Participants will acquire knowledge and skills, including: |
| Skill 1: 3D Modeling in Tinkercad
Skill 2: 3D Printing Preparation, prepare models for printing, including adjusting settings like layer height, infill, and supports. Skill 3: Using Cura for Slicing |
|
| Learning Methods Used | Lectures, experiments, and hands-on exercises |
| References/Resources | External resources and technical datasheets |
| Overview Slides | Supporting slides and documentation will be provided; available via the course platform or upon request. |