3D Column Trophy

myminifactory

This is my design for the 2018 3D Printing Industry Awards. I enjoy mechanical things so that was the basis for my design. Each of the four columns are twisted spur gears. As can be seen from the renders, there is a triple helix internal channel that follows the same spiral of each column. The column top bases are knurled on the sides with small micro features. On top of each column top base is a custom 3D logo. Although this model is optimized for an SLA printer, I wanted to give some recognition to FDM printers by creating what looks like infill in the hollowed 3D logos. Each of the four 3D logos are made so they look like they are at a different z-percentage of being completed by printing. This is why it looks like the infill feature is showing. On the front faces of each 3D logo is a patterned hexagon micro feature (see renders). The base of the trophy is a varied height honeycomb pattern. I incorporated the Proto Labs logo on each one of the hexagons in the trophy base as a thank you to Proto Labs for printing the winning design. Plus, it is a simple logo that gives depth and complexity to this portion of the model. In the middle of the trophy, I created a partial lattice cube. It is supposed to look like a flowing liquid material is being built up from the bottom of the cube and slowly covering the lattice portion. To summarize my adherence to the design criteria: Lattice - center cube, custom infill feature on each 3D logo Internal Channels - triple helix in each twisted spur gear column, custom infill feature on each 3D logo doubles as internal channels Micro Features - knurled edges of column top bases, multiple hexagon pattern on front faces of 3D logos, Proto Labs logo on every hexagon face of trophy base Optimized for SLA This model requires no supports and I could even print it on my basic FDM printer. For best results to see the internal details, print this model in a translucent or clear material. An SLA printer will also help with the very small micro features in this trophy. This trophy was built in a combination of SolidWorks and Meshmixer. It is completely parametric which means I can change any dimensions or pattern details and the entire model will automatically update! I used a combination of Fusion 360 and SimLab for the renders. Thank you for your consideration for this challenging and informative contest!