I feared this... I was going to 3D print parts for my penguin. Basically plates. I was going to print a 0.1” surface, backed by a 0.06” diamond grid for strength. I’m not sure of the type of plastic. I forget, but it’s in my online project file.Those look nice, but I'd be worried about the srength and for something outdoors the UV resistance. I have again from experience, little to no trust in either 3D printed or even stereo-lithographic plastic parts. The S-T from working with that process and the 3dP from the things my son brought home from his work. In real life those processes are mostly used to be a proof of concept hands on item not something that will last. But that's just my opinion and experience with it.
The plate’s outer diameter are subjected to the greatest forces. So I’m also considering ramping up the grid depth from a minimum at the outer edge, to a larger depth at the center (fulcrum) of the force.
I’m at a frustrating point of development. I have a prototype built from 5mm model aircraft plywood. But I need the “skin” to be completed before I can measure actual forces. My local business networking group is concerned because the skin development is being done by a creative whose actions are somewhat controlled by a trust...
My questions are:
- Is 3D printing practical?
- What other method of manufacturing should I consider? I like 3D printing, because I have almost complete control over the design using CAD software
- Cost... I’ve budgeted manufacturing in my business plan based on 3D printed components. What increase/ decrease in manufacturing costs might I experience?
- Are there any links/tutorials on 3D printing design? I’ve printed three different test models and still don’t have a working one. I’m having difficulty designing for material variations which results in my parts not fitting. For example, I’m making a sub-part which is a hinge. Model 1 fit perfectly, but the inner diameter for the hinge pin was too small. Model 2, the hinge pin fit, but the leaves didn’t fit. Model 3 - well - nothing fit!
- At this point, I’m ready to start designing the entire plate, with the grid for strength, risers to support the hinges, external connectors, linkage mounting, and servo mounting. But if I can’t make a hinge - OMG what am I going to do. There are six design points and if I have to print each one three times, I’m going to go broke. I’ll consider professional design services, but can anyone help in selecting a resource? I went through this with another consultant, got an unsatisfactory product and the vendor ghosted me. Caused me a lot of grief and loss of reputation.