🖨️3D Printing using SimplyPrint
Step-by-step guide to using the large format inkjet printer
BEFORE using the 3D printers you must:
For more information go to https://go.brown.edu/cats-3dprinting
CATS uses the online platform SimplyPrint to handle all 3D printing. Attempting to print using the printers directly or via USB is not permitted.
Only print from the Physical Media Lab
While SimplyPrint is an online platform for handling 3D printing we require all users to start prints while they are physically present in the Physical Media Lab in order to ensure that the print starts successfully. Failure to be present when printing can result in loss of printing privileges.
1. Log in to SimplyPrint
During your training with the Creative Technology Assistant they will create a SimplyPrint account. You can log in to your account at https://simplyprint.io/panel/login
After you log in you should see your dashboard which looks something like this:
2. Uploading your 3D model
SimplyPrint accepts a variety of 3D model formats including:
STLs
OBJs
STEP
In addition advance users can upload gcode files directly to SimplyPrint. Any gcode upload must be designed specifically for the Prusa MK4S printers we have in the lab.
If you have questions about using gcode please consult with the CTA or email [email protected]
Choose slicing
When you upload your 3D model it will ask you if you want to save the model file, slice it or add to queue. Saving will save the unsliced model file for later use. We want to slice the file so choose that.
We do not use queues so never use the "Add to queue" option.
3. Slicing settings
We recommend that beginners use the "Basic" settings for slicing.
Select preset
Choose 0.20mm SPEED @MK4S HF 0.4. This is a good default setting for most prints.
Infill Density
Choose 20% infill.
Prints rarely need more than 20-30% infill. For increase print strength the Wall Count is a more important setting. Higher infill increases print time and wastes filament.
Wall Count
Choose 2 perimeter walls.
This setting has the most effect on print strength. If you need a stronger prints you can increase the perimeter walls to 3 or 4.
Bed adhesions
Add a Brim if needed. Adding a brim can help secure prints to the bed preventing them from falling off the bed. This is important for prints with small bed footprint or long prints that might begin to warp as the print continues.
Use supports
Turn on supports if needed. Adding supports is important for any prints that have parts that overhanging parts.
4. Adjusting the model
In addition to the slicing you can make adjustments to the model or add additional objects to the bed before slicing.
Move, rotate and scale
The three buttons to the left of the 3D view allow you to move, rotate or scale your object. You can either adjust them with the dialog next to the button or use the transform Gizmo/Tool on the object itself.
Add objects
You can add more than one object/model to the bed and slice them together.
Arrange objects
This option allows you to space multiple objects on the bed.
Smart rotate
SimplyPrint can analyze your model and identify what it thinks is the best face to rest on the bed.
Lay on side
This option lets you choose a specific face and SimplyPrint will place that face on the bed.
5. Slice preview
Once you have adjusted the model and settings you can hit slice. SimplyPrint will then present you with a preview of your sliced model.
Warnings
If SimplyPrint give you a warning, such as "poor bed adhesion", read through its advice and hit the Prepare button in the upper right corner of the 3D view to return to the slicing settings and adjustments.
Print Info
The box at the lower left of the 3D preview labeled Print Info will show you information about print time. You can ignore information about cost as we currently do not charge for prints.
6. Printing
When you are ready hit Print button. You will be shown the available printers.
The box in the upper right of the Printers card shows its status:
Green means the printer should be ready to print
Blue means there is currently a job printing
Red means there is a problem with the printer.
IMPORTANT Before selecting and printing. Inspect the physical printer. Make sure that nothing is on the bed. The build plate is on the bed and there are no other problems with the printer.
Select a printer that is available and once you verify it is ready hit print.
IMPORTANT You must be present for the first three layers or first 10 minutes of the print before leaving.
Please see our website for information on maximum print time, number of printers, removing prints and other policies.
Happy printing!
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