3D Printing in the Classroom Copyright © 2012 Board of Trustees, University of Illinois. All rights reserved. Last modified 2/10/12

2 Today Learn about creating nano-sized 3-D objects Learn about polymerization and how it can be initiated by light Learn how to use this technology to create 3-D objects

3 Micromanufacturing Current micromanufacturing methods make relatively flat objects. –Alignment of layers hard to achieve –Process very complex and expensive Flat objects called 2-D or 2.5-D The Challenge: Lack truly 3-D microfabrication methods Example of 2.5D objects The Solution: Microstereo Lithography

4 Micromanufacturing Micromanufacturing refers to methods used to create structures of micrometer sizes or smaller. One micrometer, or micron, is one-millionth of a meter ( ) One nanometer is one-billionth of a meter ( ) 50 microns Micro GearsPhotonic CrystalBioreactor

5 3-Dimensional Printing Work of Professor Nicholas Fang in nanoscale optical imaging Idea is to mimic a complicated and expensive lab setup in an inexpensive way. Uses equipment normally found in a school classroom.

6 3-Dimensional Printing So, can’t take $ 500,000 machine into classroom – what can students do?

7 3-Dimensional Printing computer with PowerPoint image data projector magnifying glass mirror elevator product (3-d object)

8 Light-Activated Polymer uv light reacts with initiator to create two radicals. Radicals each have single free electron. +

9 Light Activated Polymer Radical bonds with monomer. Now single free electron at end of chain +

10 Light Activated Polymer Repeats until two ends with free electrons interact and bond. +

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20 Elevator Design Drawer slide provides smooth movement. T-nut and threaded screw controls motion.

21 Slicing the 3D Object 3D objects are constructed by slices. Overlapping between layers is generally required.

22 Overhanging Structures? Amount of Sudan I determines thickness of layer. Optical absorption depth Optical absorption depth

23 What to Do Make black/white images. Set up system. Print!

24 Slicing the 3D Object Create each different slice. Add blank slide to advance elevator.

25 Sample To make a rectangular box…

26 Sample To make a rectangular box… Repeat this slide to make a taller rectangular cube

27 Alignment is Important Be sure each slide aligns. To align - copy slide, make modifications. Check properties.

28 Preparation Slides Polymer reacts with uv light. Polymer does NOT react with red light, but we can see red. Red is good color to use for preparing an apparatus.

29 Focus Slide Use a red complex image to focus.

30 Alignment Slide Make a red version of the largest image to align.

31 Instructions Use red text for instructions. Repeat 25 times

32 Final Put these elements together in one file.

33 Examples of Objects

34 Examples of Objects

35 Examples of Objects

36 Examples of Objects

37 Examples of Objects

38 Examples of Objects

39 Examples of Objects

40 Examples of Objects

41 Using Math

Student Objects 42

Student Objects 43

A Different Application! 44

One Layer at a Time 45

Mathematical Sculpture 46

Mathematical Sculptures 47

The Holy Grail 48

Engagement Ring! 49