Creating your 3D model will happen entirely on your computer, and is independent of the actual 3D printers. How you create your 3D model will depend on things like your skill levels, time, the complexity of what you’re wanting to make, and what device you’re using.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
TinkerCAD is a web-based, entry-level modelling platform that is entirely free, with an education component that allows teachers to create and add students to classes so that they can then see the designs students create. TinkerCAD is based on the principle of starting from 3D shapes, which can then be edited and manipulated. Detailed guides for using TinkerCAD can be found here: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Blender is a powerful 3D graphic design tool that can be used for multiple types of projects including animation, 3D modelling, rendering, video editing and effects, and more. It is entirely free to download, and students can easily get it on their personal laptops. Being a full 3D graphic design suite, however, it takes quite a lot of computer power to run, so many student laptops will struggle. It is installed on all school computers as part of the school image. There are a huge range of online tutorials and support resources for using Blender.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fusion 360 is a cloud-based platform from Autodesk that integrates CAD (Computer-Aided Design), CAM (Computer-Aided Manufacturing), CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering), and PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design. Much like Blender, Fusion has a huge range of design and modelling functionality beyond just 3D modelling for 3D printing. Where Blender is built for digital applications, like animation and video effects, Fusion 360 is built for physical applications, modelling to create physical products. Fusion works on the principle of taking 2D sketches and ‘extruding’ them to become 3D.
Fusion 360 is a paid program; however, it offers free access for educational institutions, teachers, and students. Yarra Hills organises access for all students through their Yarra Hills email accounts, allowing students to sign up for an Autodesk account using their Yarra Hills email address and have automatic access to downloading Fusion 360. This same account can also be used for TinkerCAD (and vice versa). Teachers can create their own education accounts using either their Yarra Hills or Department emails, which will allow them to create class groups, add students, and assign products to them. Much like Blender, there are a large range of online tutorials and resources available for learning how to use Fusion 360.<\/p>\n\n\n\n