Introduction to FDM Printers

The purpose of this course is to introduce you to the FDM 3D printing process and how it is used in Additive Manufacturing.  As you progress through the course modules, lessons and activities you will learn about the technology, different FDM 3D Printers, the components that are used with them, and how the use of FDM technology supports prototyping and the development of products for multiple applications including Unmanned Aerial Systems and Medical Devices.  Then the course moves into a more specific discussion of three (3) different FDM 3D printers that are being operated in the Sinclair College Additive Manufacturing lab. In the Lab/Prototype Course you will have the opportunity to create your own 3D object and print it using one of these 3D printers with instructor guidance. The course activities conclude with a video that shows the individual steps involved in operating the MakerBot Replicator 3D Printer. The video is followed by an interactive exercise through which you can “operate” the MakerBot Printer in a computer simulation.

Prerequisites:
None

Learning Goals:

The overall Goals and Objectives for this course are listed below. Each Module of the course contains individual objectives that support the overall course goals and objectives.

• Develop a familiarity with FDM Technology design, prototyping and production process
• Discover the contributions of FDM Technology to additive manufacturing
• Develop an understanding of FDM Technology applications and trends
• Become familiar with FDM technology applications in UAS and Medical Device prototyping and production
• Develop a 3D model for use in the Lab/Prototyping Course

Note 1: This course will be held online with rolling enrollment.

Note 2: This course will run three weeks from the start date as scheduled with Sinclair once enrollment is complete.