Tired of the 3D Printer log-jam?
Use a 3D printer hub
by Paul Brewer, Managing Director, Shropshire 3D Print The importance of learning about additive manufacturing processes Industry is currently undergoing a 4th revolution with the advent of cyberphysical systems. Architects; Surgeons, Dentists, Civil Engineers, Automotive Engineers and Designers; Aerospace engineers; Space Exploration; Archaeologists all currently utilise 3D printing or as it is also known, 'Additive Manufacture' or 'Rapid Prototyping'. Given the rapid expansion and widespread utilisation, it is critical that we give pupils the opportunity to become 'industry 4.0 ready'.
Cost of acquisition. Supporting schools to identify exactly the right machine, and providing finance options to support multiple purchases to increase potential output to cope with large numbers of pupils. Cost of ownership. The latest 3D printers use the new approaches to minimise filament use. Usage. We offer a myriad of ideas and resources to help teachers incorporate 3D Printing into lessons - including full lesson plans Printing log-jams...
We recommend all schools (from Key Stage 2 upwards) invest in at least one 3D Printer so that students all have the opportunity to understand the Additive Manufacturing Process.
One of the issues that school frequently raise with us is the printing 'log-jams' that can arise when large numbers of pupils are manufacturing multiple components.
Barriers to effective use
In response, we have begun working in partnership with FreeLabster 3D Printing Hub, and we now have the ability to give your school access to a fleet of 3D printers.
Having recognised the importance of embedding 3D Printers into the curriculum (they're also great fun and add a real 'wow' factor for children and parents!) schools are also becoming increasingly savvy when it comes to getting the most from their investment. We have worked hard with the schools that we support to solve problems such as:
Due to the sheer size of the network every school will be given the power to output every students project, without the constraints of ownership or having only one or even no device.
Preparing Pupils for Industry 4.0
Industry 4.0 is a name for the current trend of automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies. It includes cyber-physical systems, the Internet of things, cloud computing and cognitive computing. Industry 4.0 creates what has been called a "smart factory".
Each Teacher will be given their own account, and each class can then design their objects in the knowledge that they will get to see the fruits of their labour. Our 3D printing gurus will give advice and feedback, and the turnaround time for printed designs is only 4 days. All you need to do is subscribe to the service and add £70.00 to your account (including a £40 credit for your first order.) To find out more visit www.shropshire3dprinters.co.uk or call us on +44 0843 8867707 for an informal discussion.