There are three articles in the Snapmaker application series for education, introducing how to use the three functions of the 3-in-1 printer for teaching purposes. Now we will introduce the last part, CNC machining!
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Question 1: Why did we design the tray as a hexagon? What are the characteristics of a hexagonal structure?
Answer 1: Hexagonal structures generally have several advantages. First, when polygons such as circles or pentagons are connected on a plane, there are gaps in between. Only triangles, quadrilaterals, and hexagons can connect without gaps in between.
Question 2: But why did we choose a hexagon instead of a triangle or quadrilateral?
Answer 2: This is because, compared to triangles and squares, hexagons have the smallest perimeter for the same flat area. This means that a larger area can be enclosed using the same amount of material. For example, we now have a 6 cm line to enclose a flat surface. If it's a triangle, the side length is 2 cm, and it can enclose an area of 1.73 square cm. If it's a square, the side length is 1.5 cm, then its area is 2.25 square cm. On the other hand, a hexagon with a side length of 1 cm can enclose an area of 2.6 square cm, making it the largest of the three. Therefore, by using hexagons, you can cover the same area with less material.
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Question 3: Now, you have a basic understanding of hexagonal structures. Look at my modular hexagonal tray design. What's special about it?
Answer 3: To make the tray modular, we need to design a connection structure to connect each hexagon. A mortise and tenon joint is used in this specific design. We can further use Inkscape to design vector images.
Once students have a basic understanding of the underlying principles, teachers can further guide them to get hands-on with Snapmaker Luban and start engraving!
We have prepared the tray files that can be used as a phone stand for your reference 👉 Link
Now let's see how to set up CNC machining in Luban. Let's start by importing "phone slot.svg". Since we are going to do grooving, we need to create a toolpath named "phone slot". The "Method" is set to "Fill", "Target Depth" is set to "10mm", and "Tool" is set to "Flat End Mill (1.5mm)". Other parameters remain unchanged, then save the settings.
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Then we can generate the G-code and send it to the printer to start machining! You can make multiple trays, put them together, and then post-process them however you like!
The Snapmaker 3-in-1 3D printer is essential for bringing projects to life!!
If you are amazed by the versatility of this 3-in-1 3D printer, or would like to learn more about Snapmaker products, please contact us below!
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