Activity 001: Slicer Settings Comparison Lab¶
Activity ID: U1M3-ACT-001 Duration: 40 minutes Objective: Students will slice the same 3D model with different settings profiles and compare the predicted outcomes in print time, material usage, and quality. Group Size: 2-3 students per station Materials Cost: ~$0 (software-only activity)
Overview¶
Students import a provided calibration model (a standardized test print with overhangs, bridges, thin walls, and text) into the slicer and create three different settings profiles: Draft, Standard, and High Quality. They analyze the slicer preview and compare metrics across all three, then predict which settings would be best for three real-world use cases.
Materials & Equipment Needed¶
- Computer with UltiMaker Cura or PrusaSlicer installed
- Provided STL file: "ProtoLab_Calibration_Cube_v2.stl" (available on lab shared drive)
- Comparison worksheet (printed or digital)
- Calculator (for material cost calculations)
Instructions & Procedure¶
Phase 1: Setup and Model Import (5 min) 1. Launch the slicer software and select the correct printer profile for your station's FDM printer 2. Import the calibration model STL file 3. Orient the model flat on the build plate with the text facing upward 4. Verify the model dimensions match expected size (40mm x 40mm x 30mm)
Phase 2: Create Three Profiles (15 min) 5. Draft Profile: Set layer height to 0.28mm, 2 walls, 10% grid infill, 70mm/s print speed, no supports 6. Standard Profile: Set layer height to 0.20mm, 3 walls, 20% gyroid infill, 50mm/s print speed, supports at 45° 7. High Quality Profile: Set layer height to 0.12mm, 4 walls, 30% gyroid infill, 40mm/s print speed, supports at 45° with tree supports enabled 8. For each profile, record on your worksheet: estimated print time, estimated filament usage (grams), estimated filament length (meters)
Phase 3: Preview Analysis (15 min) 9. For each profile, use the layer preview/scrub tool to examine: - First layer adhesion footprint - Overhang quality at 30°, 45°, and 60° sections of the model - Infill pattern visibility through transparent view - Support structure placement and density - Top surface layer coverage (check for pillowing gaps) 10. Screenshot or sketch the layer preview at layer 10, the midpoint layer, and the top layer for each profile 11. Calculate the cost per print using your lab's filament cost (typically $20-25/kg for PLA)
Phase 4: Analysis and Recommendations (5 min) 12. For each scenario below, select which profile you would use and justify your choice: - Scenario A: A quick prototype to check dimensional fit, needed in 2 hours - Scenario B: A replacement bracket for lab equipment that must bear 5kg load - Scenario C: A display model for a school showcase that must look polished
Discussion Points¶
- How does layer height affect print time? Is the relationship linear?
- At what point does increasing infill density stop meaningfully improving strength?
- Why might the slicer's time estimate differ from actual print time?
- What trade-offs exist between tree supports and linear supports?
Expected Outcomes¶
- Students should observe approximately 2-3x print time increase from Draft to High Quality
- Material usage should increase 30-60% from Draft to High Quality profiles
- Students should correctly match Draft to Scenario A, Standard/High Quality to Scenario B, and High Quality to Scenario C
Assessment Rubric¶
| Criterion | Excellent (5) | Proficient (3) | Needs Improvement (1) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Settings Accuracy | All three profiles configured correctly with appropriate values | Minor errors in 1-2 settings | Multiple incorrect settings or missing profiles |
| Preview Analysis | Detailed observations with screenshots for all three profiles | Observations present but lacking detail | Incomplete observations or missing profiles |
| Scenario Justification | Correct profile selected for all scenarios with technical reasoning | Correct selections but weak justifications | Incorrect selections or no justifications |
| Cost Calculations | Accurate calculations with correct unit conversions | Minor calculation errors | Missing or significantly incorrect calculations |
Safety Considerations¶
- No physical safety hazards in this software-only activity
- Ensure proper ergonomic workstation setup (monitor height, chair adjustment)
- Save all work frequently to prevent data loss
Last Updated: 2026-03-19