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Andrew_G Guru Joined: 18/10/2016 Location: AustraliaPosts: 847
Posted: 10:07pm 16 Dec 2023
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Hi Folks,
Thanks again. I've only had a quick play (in between unpacking boxes as we move into temporary accommodation). I have shown (to myself) that: - there is a huge number of examples and plenty of 'help' online (TBS & elsewhere) - I can design basic shapes using OpenSCAD (I haven't tried others yet) - OpenSCAD appears to be not all that intuitive but I reckon I can pick up enough to do what I need (there are strange terms like "hull" that need to be looked up) - I'll also look at some of the other suggestions.
This is the mushroom 'work in progress', complete with a flat bottom and hole up the centre.
Cheers,
Andrew
Edited 2023-12-17 13:25 by Andrew_G
damos Regular Member Joined: 15/04/2016 Location: AustraliaPosts: 63
Posted: 11:49pm 18 Dec 2023
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After trying the VERY expensive Autodesk Inventor, I tried Blender which is completely free. Blender is FAR more advanced in overall capabilities, although Inventor is much better in terms of designing mechanical systems as it can do lots of simulations.
Blender is very complex and can do everything - not just 3D printing. It can also do proper rendering with lights and cameras and animations. I have just created and rendered my first 3D animation, and while I am no designer, it serves its purpose.
There are heaps of tutorial videos for Blender and the program is very similar to major 3D programs so the learning curves may be worth it if you want to use them in the future. It is more tailored to renderers and animators than engineers.
I am starting in model railway (N gauge) and have used Blender to create lots of buildings and landscaping and it does a really good job. I am still working out textures to get stone and bricks to print properly, but I am getting there. For simple objects like enclosures and mechanical widgets it is really good.
EDNEDN Senior Member Joined: 18/02/2023 Location: United StatesPosts: 118
Posted: 03:55am 19 Dec 2023
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Yes. Blender can do just about anything. The big problem with Blender is nothing is simple and intuitive when you are starting out. The good news is there are YouTube videos to show you how to do what you need.
If you are going to use Blender, just be aware the learning curve for it is very steep.
aFox Regular Member Joined: 28/02/2023 Location: GermanyPosts: 76
Posted: 01:19pm 20 Dec 2023
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I agree with Peter.
The combination of Ender3 V2 and the PrusaSlicer is perfect. If you use only PLA you need no modification. But a good angle for alignment when assembling. The rollers should then be adjusted so that they can almost be turned by thumb and middle finger.
You get the best quality when you use transparent colors because there are fewer fillers in them that are more prone to smudging.
For my mechanical needs I use the inexpensive BricsCad because long term experiences.
For special needs like converting STL files into Solid files I use FreeCad too.
A friend on mine, from home an electrical engineer, makes fantastic parts with FreeCad. It has also an option to integrate Scad in its workbench. It is worth for a try.
In case of 3D printing, patience is your best friend!
Gregor Edited 2023-12-20 23:28 by aFox
Andrew_G Guru Joined: 18/10/2016 Location: AustraliaPosts: 847
Posted: 08:23pm 09 Jan 2024
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Hi Folks, Many thanks for your feedback. Much appreciated. I think (i.e. hope) that you have helped me to make at least a partially informed decision. I have purchased an AnkerMake M5 (it arrives in two days!).
Yes I know that it is expensive, and that none of you have one, but like most purchases I have my own reasons, including: - it should work virtually straight out of the box (simple flat-pack assembly) - it has an OK printing volume and handles most filaments - it has a self-levelling bed which is easy to release prints from - I am, now, confident that I can create models for it (I'll start with OpenSCAD and its own slicer but will try Prusa and Cura - all free) - it should be fast and be able to do good quality prints with a minimum of input from a novice like myself - I see it as a means, not an end in itself.
I don't propose to conduct an 'unboxing event' nor bore you with details but I might report in very occasionally. Without hijacking TBS I'd be interested if shedders reported if they have made enclosures for relevant projects.
Cheers,
Andrew
Revlac Guru Joined: 31/12/2016 Location: AustraliaPosts: 1024
Posted: 12:40pm 10 Jan 2024
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No worries, it looks like a good capable machine, be nice to see some enclosure's made and anything else that may be handy, interesting. Cheers Aaron Off The Grid
aFox Regular Member Joined: 28/02/2023 Location: GermanyPosts: 76
Posted: 07:23pm 10 Jan 2024
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Hi Andrew
AnkerMake M5: Looks very solid.
You will make your own 3D-printer experiences. Experience is the sum of failures!
Notice. New forum software under development. It's going to miss a few functions and look a bit ugly for a while, but I'm working on it full time now as the old forum was too unstable. Couple days, all good. If you notice any issues, please contact me.
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