Author: CthulhuIsRight
This project provides a step-by-step guide for Pierce College geology students to model real-world topography using 3D printing. It bridges geological concepts with hands-on learning by connecting students with the college's Makerspace.
- Website: makerspace-3d-terrain-website.github.io
- Accordion-style navigation of tutorial
- STL Generator: Terrain2STL
- Slicer Software: PrusaSlicer
- Campus Resource: Pierce College Makerspace
- A computer with an internet connection.
- A landmark you wish to model (this guide in particular uses Mount Rainier).
- Access to a 3D Printer (available at the Pierce College Makerspace).
- Generate Model: Use Terrain2STL to select a location and create an
.stlfile. - Prepare File: Import the
.stlfile into PrusaSlicer. - Slice Model: Scale, orient, and configure settings to generate the printable G-code.
- Print Model: Send the G-code to a 3D printer and monitor the process.
- Post-Process (Optional): Clean up the finished print and apply any desired finishing touches.
By completing this project, students will:
- Create physical models to visualize complex geological concepts.
- Generate 3D terrain models from real-world elevation data.
- Operate slicer software (PrusaSlicer) to prepare models for printing.
- Gain practical experience with 3D printing workflows.
- Effectively utilize the resources at the Pierce College Makerspace.
This project is tailored for students in the following Pierce College geology courses:
- GEOL 107: Exploring Earth Science
- GEOL 112: Geohazards and Natural Disasters
- GEOL& 101: Introduction to Physical Geology
- GEOL& 103: Historical Geology
- GEOL& 110: Environmental Geology
- GEOL& 115: Geology of National Parks
This project is licensed under the MIT License.