3d printer
Posted: Fri Oct 04, 2013 12:22 am
So loopy recently has said that of we needed our 3ds back for x and y we could ship it without the case. My buddy has a 3d printer, could I use that for the back casing?
Well it could be possible, but there are multiple factors involved in 3D printing parts.
1. You would need a CAD file of the backplate.
2. Build platform size on the printer - If not large enough it will not fit on the print bed.
3. Tolerance of the printed part and 3DS - Most consumer printers use ABS or PLA plastic for printing they are extruded hot and cool afterward which causes shrinkage of the part.
4. Strength of the printed part - The backplate is thin, printing it in the traditional thin passes of plastic would make it brittle and it could possibly break.
5. Warping of the part - While PLA plastic does not tend to do this, ABS curls if it does not properly adhere to the print bed, this would cause all dimensions of the back to be wrong and thus would not fit.
6. Longevity of the part - PLA plastic if a corn based plastic that dissolves in water, moisture from your hands and in the air can also break down this plastic.
While 3D printing is an amazing feat of engineering, it does have its drawbacks and limitations.