This section describes the different steps followed to produce a custom 3D printed Cat Bowl for your cats.
Step 1 : Download the Design
In order to produce a 3D object using 3D Printing, you need to have its digital design in .STL format.
In this example, the cat bowl was was designed by Nachirobe and downloaded for free from Thingiverse.com using this Link
Step 2: Slicing – Preparing The File For 3D Printing
The STL file is then imported into a slicing software, like Cura. Choose the settings that are needed to have a successful print.
- Choose Your Material: Typically you may have an idea about what kind of material you will use before you print. There are many different 3D printing materials available, and you can choose them based on the properties that you want your object to have. In this project PLA filaments were used.
- Choose Your Parameters: The next step is then deciding on the different parameters of your object and the printing process. This includes deciding on the size and placement of your print. The layer thickness chosen was 0.15mm which produces a normal surface finish. The infill chosen was 10% which is enough for a small bowl with a small wall thickness. No support where required in this print.
The slicing software will then convert the information from the STL file into a G-code, which is a specific code containing exact instructions for the printer.
Step 3: 3D Printing
This is when the magic happens! The printer will create the object layer by layer. Depending on the size of your object, your printer, and the materials used, the job can be done in a matter of minutes or over several hours. In this example, the printing process took around 6 hours.
Step 4: Remove Your Print And Clean
Remove the printed part from the printer’s printing bed after it cools down.
Depending on what you want your final product to be or the material you used, there may be additional post-processing steps after printing, like painting, brushing off powder, etc.
In this example the extra brim was removed after the print was one.
Step 5: Add cat food to the bowl and feed your favorite cats.
