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imaginary... and our near future.
imaginary... and our near future.


===[http://www.thinkmind.org/index.php?view=article&articleid=icds_2012_3_10_10018 Three Dimensional Printing: An Introduction for Information Professional]
===[http://www.thinkmind.org/index.php?view=article&articleid=icds_2012_3_10_10018 Three Dimensional Printing: An Introduction for Information Professional]===
'''Marcoux, Julie, and Kenneth-Roy Bonin. "Three Dimensional Printing: An Introduction for Information Professionals." ICDS 2012, The Sixth International Conference on Digital Society. 2012.'''
'''Marcoux, Julie, and Kenneth-Roy Bonin. "Three Dimensional Printing: An Introduction for Information Professionals." ICDS 2012, The Sixth International Conference on Digital Society. 2012.'''



Revision as of 23:55, 14 February 2013

RepRap Technology

RepRap – the replicating rapid prototyper

R. Jones, P. Haufe, E. Sells, P. Iravani, V. Olliver, C. Palmer and A. Bowyer, “RepRap – the replicating rapid prototyper,” Robotica, 29(1), 177-191, 2011.

Abstract:

This paper presents the results to date of the RepRap project – an ongoing project that has made and distributed freely a replicating rapid prototyper. We give the background reasoning that led to the invention of the machine, the selection of the processes that we and others have used to implement it, the designs of key parts of the machine and how these have evolved from their initial concepts and experiments, and estimates of the machine's reproductive success out in the world up to the time of writing (about 4500 machines in two and a half years).

Notes:

  • Give history of RepRap
  • Started in 2004
  • First RepRap self reproduction in 2008
  • Originally designed to print ABS
  • PLA chosen as an alternative print material as it is plant-based and biodegradable
  • 48% self replicating excluding fasteners, 13% including fasteners (For both Darwin and Mendel)
  • Mendel possible self replication of 57% (excluding fasteners) if bearings are replaced with printed plain bearings.
  • From Table 1- Mendel: Cost-350 Euros, Deposition Rate-15 mL/hr, Nozzle Diameter-0.5mm, Positioning Accuracy-0.1mm,

Open Design and the Reprap Project

D. Holland, G. O'Donnell, and G. Bennett, “Open Design and the Reprap Project,” 27th International Manufacturing Conference', 97-106, 2010.

Abstract:

This paper details the investigation of an emerging trend within technology development: ‘open design’. Improvements in communications and computing technology have made collaboration over geographically vast distances possible. This technology has already had a major impact on the field of engineering, from the development of CAD/CAE/CAM practices to the emergence of concurrent engineering. Taking the lead from open source software, open design is an approach to technology development in which technical design information is licensed in such a manner that it can be accessed, utilised, modified and redistributed by anyone. The potential implications of this concept can be inferred from the impact of open source software. A review of the existing literature on the subject was conducted. A practical demonstration of the process was undertaken, via an attempt to contribute to an existing open design technology: the RepRap. This is a low cost rapid prototyper capable of manufacturing the parts required to make a copy of itself. The ability to use resin as a construction material was identified as a requirement of the device. An approach to integrating resin extrusion within the device was selected, a suitable material identified, and an experimental rig designed and assembled. Initial test results indicated that resin extrusion is viable for the RepRap.

Notes:

  • Discusses the benefits of "open design" - advancement of technology, rapid evolution of designs, efficient debugging, ability to deal with uncertainty about a new technologies success.
  • Good brief history of the RepRap
  • Investigated the possibility of using resins as a feedstock - Used a UV curable adhesive resin
  • Created experimental, syringe-based extruder run on a 3-axis desktop CNC machine (not a RepRap)
  • Experiments to investigate feasibility, cure times, effect of mixing resin with additives, using ABS and resin, and using ABS as a support structure.
  • Found that only high viscosity resins produced acceptable print quality without any support structure.
  • ABS can be successfully use as a support material in combination with low viscosity resins. It can later be removed by submerging the part in acetone which dissolves the ABS but keeps the resin intact.

An Open Source Hardware-based Mechatronics Project: The Replicating Rapid 3-D Printer

J. Kentzer, B. Koch, M. Thiim, R.W. Jones, and E. Villumsen, “An Open Source Hardware-based Mechatronics Project: The Replicating Rapid 3-D Printer,” 2011 4th International Conference on Mechatronics', 1-8, 2011.

Abstract:

This contribution reviews the execution of an open source hardware (OSHW) project as part of the Master in Mechatronics Degree Programme at the University of Southern Denmark. There were a number of reasons that motivated us to carry out this project; educational, intellectual and research reasons. Open source projects provide unique opportunities for students to gain experience solving real-world problems. There was also a research consideration in pursuing an OSHW project. Three of the authors of this contribution are working towards a Master's Degree in Innovation and Business and wanted to carry out an OSHW project as a precursor to doing research work on the `Commercialization of OSHW Projects'. The choice of the project was all important and we choose to build a 3-D printer using information provided by the RepRap Open Source Community because this satisfied nearly all our specifications for an OSHW project. Our experiences in constructing a 3-D printer as well as documenting the areas where the open source information currently has deficiencies are documented here.

Notes:

  • Outlines the history of Open Source Hardware (OSHW) from Open Source Software
  • Use of Open Source Appropriate Technology projects in the classroom (cites Dr. Pearce)
  • Overview of building their Mendel and the problems they encountered - holes to small, firmware issues, hot end failure
  • Printed ABS400 at 260C.
  • Hot end problems- had multiple failures of PTFE thermal barrier. Switched to a PEEK barrier.
  • Switched from ABS to PLA - had problems with sticking in the nozzle, fixed with oil
  • Used Gen 3 electronics
  • Described many deficiencies in RepRap documentation

3-D Printing of Open Source Appropriate Technologies for Self-Directed Sustainable Development

J. M. Pearce, C.M. Blair, K.J. Laciak, R. Andrews, A. Nosrat, and I. Zelenika-Zovko, “3-D Printing of Open Source Appropriate Technologies for Self-Directed Sustainable Development,” Journal of Sustainable Development', 3(4), 17-29, 2010.

Abstract:

The technological evolution of the 3-D printer, widespread internet access and inexpensive computing has made a new means of open design capable of accelerating self-directed sustainable development. This study critically examines how open source 3-D printers, such as the RepRap and Fab@home, enable the use of designs in the public domain to fabricate open source appropriate technology (OSAT), which are easily and economically made from readily available resources by local communities to meet their needs. The current capabilities of open source 3-D printers is reviewed and a new classification scheme is proposed for OSATs that are technically feasible and economically viable for production. Then, a methodology for quantifying the properties of printed parts and a research trajectory is outlined to extend the existing technology to provide complete village-level fabrication of OSATs. Finally, conclusions are drawn on the potential for open source 3-D printers to assist in driving sustainable development.

Notes:

  • Defines appropriate technology
  • Appropriate technology is not well documented and shared. Need for better dissemination.
  • Commercial printers have high tolerances but expensive ($5000-$200,000) compared to ~$1000 open source printers
  • RepRap and Fab@Home started at colleges and have open source communities
  • Self-replication 6.83% with fasteners, 48% excluding fasteners
  • RepRap can print ABS, PLA, HDPE, and polycarprolactone
  • "Sequential layer deposition"
  • Open source CAD software and model sharing on Thingiverse
  • No machining skills necessary to operate 3-D printers
  • Open source printing would encourage training in CAD and design
  • Printed parts could be used in energy, farming, water, food, medical, transportation, handicrafts, housing, and industrial applications
  • Possible directly made parts include: prosthesis, tools, gears, clamps, etc.
  • Using printed part for making a casting mold
  • Post-processing is acceptable for OSAT applications
  • Most development in open source 3-D printing is from the hacking community, not currently influenced by the full potential of materials science and engineering
  • 3-D printing does not have the reliability or testing for deployment in developing countries.
  • More testing of printed parts is need along with development of testing methods to find the properties of printed materials
  • Need theoretical analysis and testing of parts to determine suitability of printing objects.

RepRap: The Replicating Rapid Prototyper Maximizing Customizability by Breeding the Means of Production

Z. Smith, “RepRap: The Replicating Rapid Prototyper Maximizing Customizability by Breeding the Means of Production.”

The Intellectual Property Implications of Low-Cost 3D Printing

Bradshaw, S., Bowyer, A. and Haufe, P., 2010. The Intellectual Property implications of low-cost 3D printing. ScriptEd, 7 (1), pp. 5-31.

Abstract:

In the late 1970s 3D printing started to become established as a manufacturing technology. Thirty years on the cost of 3D printing machines is falling to the point where private individuals in the developed world may easily own them. They allow anyone to print complicated engineering parts entirely automatically from design files that it is straightforward to share over the Internet. However, although the widespread use of 3D printers may well have both economic and environmental advantages over conventional methods of manufacturing and distributing goods, there may be concerns that such use could be constrained by the operation of intellectual property (IP) law. This paper examines existing IP legislation and case law in the contexts of the possible wide take-up of this technology by both small firms and private individuals. It splits this examination into five areas: copyright, design protection, patents, trade marks, and passing off. Reassuringly, and perhaps surprisingly, it is concluded that – within the UK at least - private 3D printer owners making items for personal use and not for gain are exempt from the vast majority of IP constraints, and that commercial users, though more restricted, are less so than might be imagined.

A New Open Source 3D-Printable Mobile Robotic Platform for Education

Gonzalez-Gomez, J., Valero-Gomez, A., Prieto-Moreno, A., & Abderrahim, M. (2012). A new open source 3d-printable mobile robotic platform for education. Advances in Autonomous Mini Robots, 49-62.

Abstract:

In this paper we present the Miniskybot, our new mobile robot aimed for educational purposes, and the underlying philosophy. It has three new important features: 3D-printable on low cost reprap-like machines, fully open source (including mechanics and electronics), and designed exclusively with open source tools. The presented robotic platform allows the students not only to learn robot programming, but also to modify easily the chassis and create new custom parts. Being open source the robot can be freely modified, copied, and shared across the Internet. In addition, it is extremely cheap, being the cost almost exclusively determined by the cost of the servos, electronics and sensors.

IT WILL BE AWESOME IF THEY DON'T SCREW IT UP

Weinberg, M. (2010). IT WILL BE AWESOME IF THEY DON’T SCREW IT UP.

Abstract:

The next great technological disruption is brewing just out of sight. In small workshops, and faceless office parks, and garages, and basements, revolutionaries are tinkering with the machines that can turn digital bits into physical atoms. The machines can download plans for a wrench from the Internet and print out a real, working wrench. Users design their own jewelry, gears, brackets, and toys with a computer program, and use their machines to create real jewelry, gears, brackets and toys.

Changing How We Make and Deliver Smart Devices: When Can I Print Out My New Phone?

A. Schmidt, T. Doring, and A. Sylvester, “Changing How We Make and Deliver Smart Devices: When Can I Print Out My New Phone?,” IEEE Pervasive Computing, vol. 10, no. 4, pp. 6 –9, Apr. 2011.

Abstract:

The research vision of printing physical devices has been around for a decade, and in research prototypes this vision is being realized. With fabrication laboratories (fab labs) emerging around the world and with more powerful modular computing platforms becoming available, the possibility of creating innovative smart devices and ubicomp products is becoming reality.

3D Printer Toolchain

Evans, Brian. "3D Printer Toolchain." Practical 3D Printers (2012): 27-47.

Abstract:

We are still a long way from having our personal 3D printers work just like our microwaves, yet there has been a lot of progress made by a group of intrepid developers to not only give you options for how you want to use your 3D printer but to make it more reliable and easier to use. How we interact with our 3D printer is determined by the printer’s toolchain: the electronics, fi rmware, control software, and slicing software that take a 3D model to a 3D object. If you bought your 3D printer as a complete kit or preassembled, then you probably have a set toolchain provided by the kit manufacturer. On the other hand, you might be piecing your 3D printer together from a variety of sources and are choosing parts of the toolchain that best fi t your needs. Either way, this chapter is here to help you understand how these diffffff erent parts of the toolchain work together. ThThis chapter also introduces the idea of the 3D printer work fl ow as a way to use our printer’s toolchain to make 3D prints. You might later decide to upgrade parts of your toolchain, so this chapter will help give you a place to start. For example, we might want to upgrade our three-year-old MakerBot Cupcake with new electronics running new fi rmware with advanced features originally designed for a RepRap. We might also want to upgrade our slicer program to make repairing models for printing a little easier. All of this would give us a signi fi cant upgrade in an older printer’s print quality and performance, breathing new life into it.

VIRTUAL FACTORY FOR CUSTOMIZED OPEN PRODUCTION

Redlich, T. O. B. I. A. S., JENS P. Wulfsberg, and F. L. Bruhns. "Virtual Factory for Customized Open Production." Tagungsband 15th International Product Development Management Conference, Hamburg. 2008.

Abstract:

This paper regards a holistic customer integration into value creating with a focus on the development of manufacturing equipment. Therefore the paradigm of Open Production will be introduced and the practicability of openness will be evidenced by practical examples.

The Cambrian Explosion of Popular 3D Printing

Cano, Juan Luis Chulilla. "The Cambrian Explosion of Popular 3D Printing." International Journal 1.

Abstract:

The unexpected appearance of 3D printing has caught many of technology analyst by surprise. In this paper we aim to provide a social context to the feedback loops that have generated this rapid evolution of technologies and skills involved in 3D printing, as well as and online communities related with 3D printing and the impact of this evolution on media an popular imaginary... and our near future.

Three Dimensional Printing: An Introduction for Information Professional

Marcoux, Julie, and Kenneth-Roy Bonin. "Three Dimensional Printing: An Introduction for Information Professionals." ICDS 2012, The Sixth International Conference on Digital Society. 2012.

Abstract:

Advanced by some as the next great emerging technology to enjoy overwhelming market penetration, three dimensional (3D) printing could have significant information implications, notwithstanding limited coverage in the information science literature. This review of complementary material from other sources provides the introductory definitions, technical descriptions and indications of future developments relevant to information professionals.

PV Junction Box

Waterproofing 3D Prints (and also making them look super-cool) with Epoxy Clay

Neil's Log Book

Abstract:

It’s pretty hard to get a watertight object out of our Makerbot Thing-O-Matic. The walls of printed objects are pretty solid, but unexpectedly porous; even a thick block printed with 100% infill will allow water to penetrate it due to errors around the edges and imperfectly fused strands of plastic. If you want to make a hollow object waterproof you’re going to have to do some post-processing.

Inverter and PV System Technology

Solarpraxis 2012 and Sunbeam 2012

Abstract:

"Inverter and PV System Technology” takes a close look at the electrical components of the PV system and its interactions, gives an overview of market conditions and presents the latest technical developments. Corporate portraits of international companies round off this comprehensive industry guide on PV system technology.

AN3432 Application Note, How to choose a bypass diode for a silicon panel junction box

STMicroelectronics 2011

Abstract:

Today, the main technologies used in solar panel are polycrystalline and mono crystalline silicon solar cells. When one solar cell of the panel is shaded while the others are illuminated, a hot spot could appear and leads to the shaded cell destruction. The bypass diode is an efficient solution to eliminate the “hot spot” and maintain the current delivery. The Schottky diode is a cost effective candidate. Its VRRM, VF/IR trade off need to fit the panel and junction box characteristics. This document gives a method to select the most appropriate diode versus the panel characteristics.

A Simple, Low-Cost Conductive Composite Material for 3D Printing of Electronic Sensors

Leigh, Simon J., et al. "A simple, low-cost conductive composite material for 3D printing of electronic sensors." PLoS One 7.11 (2012): e49365.

Abstract:

3D printing technology can produce complex objects directly from computer aided digital designs. The technology has traditionally been used by large companies to produce fit and form concept prototypes (‘rapid prototyping’) before production. In recent years however there has been a move to adopt the technology as full-scale manufacturing solution. The advent of low-cost, desktop 3D printers such as the RepRap and Fab@Home has meant a wider user base are now able to have access to desktop manufacturing platforms enabling them to produce highly customised products for personal use and sale. This uptake in usage has been coupled with a demand for printing technology and materials able to print functional elements such as electronic sensors. Here we present formulation of a simple conductive thermoplastic composite we term ‘carbomorph’ and demonstrate how it can be used in an unmodified low-cost 3D printer to print electronic sensors able to sense mechanical flexing and capacitance changes. We show how this capability can be used to produce custom sensing devices and user interface devices along with printed objects with embedded sensing capability. This advance in low-cost 3D printing with offer a new paradigm in the 3D printing field with printed sensors and electronics embedded inside 3D printed objects in a single build process without requiring complex or expensive materials incorporating additives such as carbon nanotubes.

PV Laminates and Installation

Application Guidelines for Photovoltaic Laminates

Soligent

Abstract:

This document is a desktop reference for UNI‐SOLAR® customers to support the development, design, construction, and estimation of rooftop photovoltaic projects involving UNI‐SOLAR photovoltaic laminates. The design notes and examples, labor case studies for estimations, energy modeling guidelines, and other material in this document are intended to be used as a reference for sales professionals, engineers, estimators, and construction personnel working on UNI‐SOLAR projects. The guidelines and information contained herein support, but do not replace or supersede, the specifications of the UNI‐SOLAR installation guides. The installation guides should be considered the specifications to which a UNI‐SOLAR installation must adhere for the UNI‐SOLAR Limited Product and Performance Warranty to apply.

Building a System

Affordable Solar

Abstract: Don't know what to look for or what components you'll need? Search through our articles here in the Building a System section to find out what you'll need to build and assemble a system that's right for you.

UV Protection / Lifetime Assessment

The effect of photo-oxidative degradation on fracture in ABS pipe resins

P. Davis, B. E. Tiganis, and L. S. Burn, “The effect of photo-oxidative degradation on fracture in ABS pipe resins,” Polymer Degradation and Stability, vol. 84, no. 2, pp. 233–242, May 200

Abstract:

This work investigates ultraviolet (UV) degradation and its influence on fracture failure in acrylonitrile–butadiene–styrene (ABS) resins. Preliminary chemiluminescence assessment of coupon specimens indicates that degradation is restricted to the specimen surface, with a relatively rapid depletion of residual stabiliser compared to the bulk of the specimen. Fourier transform infra-red spectral analysis indicates that this surface-specific degradation forms photoproducts with the distortion of absorbance bands (corresponding to the trans CC unsaturation (vinyl) in polybutadiene (PB), and the 1,2-butadiene terminal vinyl C–H band), indicating bond unsaturation. These changes in chemical structure are attributed to cross-linking and chain scission in the PB phase. It is proposed that surface degradation after UV exposure promotes brittle behaviour and may therefore influence the failure mechanism of ABS pressure pipes under static loading. The effect of UV exposure in coupon specimens is compared to that of surface notching, and plane-strain fracture toughness tests are used to obtain an empirical relationship between exposure time and “equivalent” notch depth. By assuming that this relationship is independent of specimen geometry (i.e. degradation is restricted to the surface), a methodology for estimating the lifetime of UV-exposed ABS pipes is proposed. An analysis of DN100 Class 15 ABS pipes predicts that a transition to brittle fracture failure occurs after 137 years. However, it is recommended that the influence of pipe wall thickness on degradation kinetics be quantified.

The Outdoor Performance of Plastic Materials Used as Cable Accessories

R. J. T. Clabbum, R. J. Penneck, and C. J. Swinmurn, “The Outdoor Performance of Plastic Materials Used as Cable Accessories,” IEEE Transactions on Power Apparatus and Systems, vol. PAS-92, no. 6, pp. 1833 –1842, Nov. 1973.

Abstract:

This paper shows how plastics materials may be affected by exposure to the outdoor environment. The possible effects of ultra violet light, atmospheric oxygen, moisture, gaseous and solid pollution are discussed in detail. Data obtained from extensive natural and accelerated weathering on a variety of materials demonstrates the practical significance of this information and shows that outdoor performance can vary dramatically between polymers and that even minor changes in the chemical constitution of either the polymer or the incorporated additives can have very significant and often detrimental effects.

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