Introduction to 3D Design for 3D Printing

As the fourth industrial revolution continues to reshape manufacturing and creative industries, the University of Sheffield Library’s Digital Commons is hosting an intensive, hands-on workshop focused on the fundamentals of 3D design and additive manufacturing. This event is designed to demystify the process of moving from a conceptual idea to a physical object. Hosted in the state-of-the-art Digital Commons, participants will be introduced to industry-standard CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software, learning how to manipulate geometric primitives, manage tolerances, and optimize files for various printing materials. The workshop is tailored for those with zero prior experience, providing a supportive environment where "learning by doing" is the primary philosophy.

Beyond the software, the event covers the mechanical side of 3D printing. Attendees will witness the setup and operation of FDM (Fused Deposition Modeling) printers, understanding how factors like layer height and infill density affect the strength and aesthetics of a final piece. This workshop is particularly relevant for students and professionals in engineering, product design, and healthcare, where rapid prototyping is now an essential skill. By the end of the session, participants will have created their own digital model and gained the confidence to use the University's makerspace facilities independently. The University of Sheffield continues to lead in digital literacy, ensuring that its community is not just consumers of technology, but creators and innovators within the digital landscape.