．Focusing on Technology's Social Mission
Atlantic University is a non-profit higher education institution that continuously cultivates outstanding students for ever-evolving technology; the university is renowned for its excellent game and programming designers, with approximately 75% of game engineers in Puerto Rico being Atlantic University alumni. They are concerned with the future of business technology, and one of Atlantic University's future plans is to open the first 3D printing course in Puerto Rico to further inspire the school's technology leaders.
Students Zohary Oquendo and Bryan Berdecia created and printed animal and child-friendly alternatives to live animals used in dissection. Photo credit: Joshua Montalvo
While Vincent primarily teaches undergraduates and focuses on product prototyping, his course provides a broader introduction to the field of 3D printing manufacturing. Students gain training in relevant software, applications, hardware, and various 3D printing courses, from desktop printers to industrial machines.
"It's very important for students to get hands-on experience with 3D printers, and keeping the lab running ensures that every project is completed before the deadline," says Professor Vincent. With a strong belief in "learning by doing," Professor Vincent's course also includes a month-long topic where students must understand the 3D printing process from start to finish. He deeply understands the importance of rapid prototyping in 3D printing and data; students can integrate these methods into their research topics by getting hands-on experience with Ultimaker machines.
Professor Vincent has approximately five years of 3D printing experience and uses 3D printers almost daily; when he proposed establishing a lab to the school, they were open to the idea and understood that these processes could bring more value to eager students. The quality and image of Ultimaker, as well as its user-friendly and simple operation, were precisely what attracted him to recommend it to the school first. "Ease of maintenance, ease of use, and reliability are very important, and if you're a veteran in this industry, you'll even understand that these are Ultimaker's key advantages."
"As the related industry has developed over the past few years, having reliable and consistent 3D printers has become increasingly important for educators," he said. This is invaluable for the long-term 3D printing industry, passionate students, and rapid prototyping.
Smart utensils designed by student Steven Arroyo, suitable for individuals with motor impairments or difficulties. Photo credit: Joshua Montalvo
To accommodate various subjects, Professor Vincent purchased two Ultimaker printers, including the Ultimaker 2+, to increase flexibility. In the future, he hopes to expand this series of 3D printers, such as the Ultimaker S5, to gain more benefits from dual extruders, allowing students to use them in month-long projects. Since the Ultimaker 2+ is primarily used for organic shapes and character-related designs at Atlantic University, students find that the printer can easily handle supports and large prototypes. Although they primarily print with PLA and ABS, they also use PET and other flexible materials; he is excited to acquire more advanced Ultimakers to be able to use PVA supports and try out a variety of new materials for busy classes. With the many challenges at the university, the printers work 4-5 days a week, sometimes overnight, allowing them to see the expected results firsthand.
A stand designed by student Jeremy Muñiz that can hold a Samsung S6 Edge phone and a wireless charger simultaneously. Photo credit: Joshua Montalvo
．Time and Cost Savings
The best part is that they can fully trust their 3D printers without constantly checking them, allowing them to focus more time on other areas. Cost and time savings are among the biggest benefits they have achieved so far, with faster print times accelerating the completion of classroom topics; through Ultimaker's software and hardware integration and continuous quality improvements, these advantages provide unparalleled possibilities for students from ideation to finished product rapid prototyping.
Student Ramphis Rios created a textured Rubik's Cube, allowing visually impaired individuals to enjoy playing it. Photo credit: Joshua Montalvo
Other faculty and students at Atlantic University are also eager to use Ultimaker printers, especially those in the graphic design and animation departments. In addition to students incorporating 3D printing into classroom projects and entrepreneurial plans, community members can also experience the school-sponsored machines.
Through this program, Vincent has seen inspiring work: one student specifically designed a durable and sturdy hand part with an improved grip for her neighbor with arthritis. She not only learned a lot about 3D printing through the design and printing process but also gained experience beyond the classroom—this is the most valuable aspect of hands-on work.
"I believe that 3D printing allows students to put their career plans into practice, especially if they work in teams." Teamwork and communication give students the opportunity to improve prototypes through testing. "3D printing helps them trust each other and understand that successful ideas may take some trial and error. This is a continuous learning process that hopefully they can expand into their personal and professional lives." He hopes that as 3D printers rapidly evolve, he can reach more students and their work.
A wheelchair combined with a phone grip designed by student Gustavo Agosto. Photo credit: Joshua Montalvo
"The core of printing is 3D modeling, and 95% of proposals depend on 3D modeling skills; in addition to Ultimaker Cura, they can also use software such as Maya, Rhino, Fusion 360, ZBrush, and Meshmixer. These tools are crucial for the 3D printing process because students must be able to turn their creative ideas into reality," emphasizes Professor Vincent.
Looking ahead to the future of 3D printing, Vincent knows that the biggest challenge facing educators is problem-solving. He hopes that the education community can further plan 3D printing courses so that other schools can also enjoy the benefits of digital fabrication. We are also happy to share information related to new technologies, hoping that this technology can promote the progress of the world.