3D Printer: Prusa i3 MK3S+
Filament: Polymaker's PolyLite PLA in Magenta
CAD Software Application: Autodesk Fusion (macOS 14.6.1)
3DBenchy Results
I printed without making any changes to the default settings on either the slicer or printer.
- No stringing observed
- Door frame tops showed slight drooping on the final layer
- Fine text details were somewhat lost/unclear
- Hull layers weren't perfectly aligned on the sides
- All features printed successfully without supports
- Slicer warned about potential bed adhesion issues, but print adhered fine
Printing
- Print orientation significantly affects part strength
- Different colors of the same filament type may change dimensional accuracy due to temperature variations
Results from group tests for printer accuracy
Designing
- Keep calipers or a ruler nearby when designing to help visualize scale accurately
- File organization: Keep all bodies in the same folder for proper object storage
- Fixed extrusion angle issue: In the extrude menu, set the "taper angle" to zero degrees (was automatically creating angled extrusions)
I tried to create a print-in-place hinge as my non-subtractive design. Initially, I followed a YouTube tutorial and successfully completed fig. 3. Attending Alfonso's office hours helped me gain a better understanding of how to navigate Fusion 360. As a newcomer to CAD, I don't know what I don't know, so I really appreciate the generosity of the TAs.
During the session, Alfonso guided me through an alternative method for creating the hinge, which involved using different sections in “Sketches,” extruding them, and setting parameters for the dimensions (fig. 1, fig. 3). I then attempted to replicate his version on my own, but ended up with something that looked quite different (fig. 2).
Hinge Results
Fig. 3 works! Its a little ugly around the bottom curve of the tab.
Fig. 4 did not work, then I increased the tolerance and it worked. I tried different ways of placing it on the bed but the prints failed.
Download fig. 2Download fig. 3
Download fig. 4