Expanding Professional 3D Printing Knowledge Through Online Learning Academy

Introduction

3D printing requires knowledge from various engineering and design areas, including 3D design, materials science, and mechanical engineering. No matter the scale of your additive manufacturing project, having a deep understanding of these elements is essential for success. One way for engineers to expand their 3D printing knowledge is through engagement with online courses. In this article, we look at the BigRep Academy, an online 3D printing knowledge resource from the German-based 3D printing company Big Rep.

BigRep Academy

The BigRep Academy is a valuable asset for engineers and designers throughout the 3D printing industry who are looking to expand their knowledge of large-format digital fabrication. 3D printing is an industry that is continuously evolving, so it is essential for engineers and designers to stay ahead of trends with the right technical knowledge. 

The BigRep Academy has an extensive repertoire of courses, tutorials, and insights, catered specifically for engineers and designers looking to expand their technical knowledge. 

Basic Training (eLearning Platform):

The BigRep Academy e-learning platform includes course materials that provide the necessary fundamental knowledge for efficient 3D printing. These fundamental courses include: 

• Blade Basics: Find out how to get about and get the most of BigRep’s potent slicing program, BLADE. This session will teach you everything you need to know, from preparing your model to optimizing your print settings to producing professional-quality prints. By learning about the various slicing parameters, infill patterns, and support structures, you'll be able to fine-tune the quality and efficiency of your prints.

• Design for Additive Manufacturing: Explore the fundamentals of design used in additive manufacturing. Learn the basics of designing for 3D printing, such as taking into account the geometry, material qualities, and support structures of your creations. Using the skills and knowledge provided by this program, you will be able to develop designs that make full use of the diverse potential of additive manufacturing. You will learn how to optimize designs for strength, utility, and effective use of materials, which will enable you to build complex parts that were previously impossible to make using standard manufacturing methods. You will also learn how to optimize designs for optimal use of space.

• Operating Your BigRep Printer: Gain complete self-assurance in your ability to operate your BigRep printer. This session covers key features such as setting up the machine, calibrating it, loading it with material, and successfully printing. You will acquire a comprehensive knowledge of the operations of the printer, such as how to manage the temperature, load filament, and level the bed. You will be able to get the most out of your equipment and produce results that are reliable and of a high standard if you are familiar with the peculiarities of its operation.

• Troubleshooting: Utilizing their troubleshooting module, you can locate and fix typical mechanical faults as well as difficulties with the print quality. Learn how to diagnose problems with your printing process, such as layer adhesion, warping, or nozzle clogging, and adopt efficient solutions to maintain a smooth and uninterrupted printing process. You will develop skills in troubleshooting that will allow you to recognize potential issues and take necessary actions, so ensuring that your printing experience will go off without a hitch.

Each module takes approximately 2 hours to complete. There is a test at the end of each training module, except for the introduction module. When participants pass the test, they receive a certificate.

Advanced Training

Users who are interested in further improving their 3D printing abilities can take advantage of the advanced training choices provided by BigRep Academy, which is available in addition to their eLearning platform. These modules consist of the following:

• Blade Advanced: Improve your cutting prowess by learning more about the powerful tools available in the BLADE program. Gain an advantage in the 3D printing market by learning how to maximise print speed, material economy, and productivity. Adaptive layer height, variable infill density, and intelligent support generation are just a few of the cutting-edge techniques you'll learn about. You can save time and resources without sacrificing print quality by using these methods to fine-tune prints for specific needs.

• Printer Maintenance: You can extend the life of your BigRep printer and keep it running well with regular maintenance. If you want to maintain your machine running smoothly and efficiently and cut down on downtime, this training package will show you the ropes. You'll gain an understanding of how to clean the print bed, lubricate moving parts, and inspect for signs of wear and tear, among other routine maintenance tasks. Maintaining your printer regularly will increase its lifespan and guarantee reliable operation.

• Individual Training: BigRep recognizes that each customer has particular needs. BigRep can tailor training to meet your unique needs, whether those needs are related to completing a particular project or overcoming a particular difficulty. By tailoring your education to your unique needs, you can learn about the specifics of 3D printing that will have the most impact on your process. 

Why Choose BigRep Academy?

The BigRep Academy is currently available to all BiG Rep customers. It is a unique offering that provides specialized knowledge about large-format 3D printing. As a 3D printing company that covers printers, materials, and a service platform, the company has the depth of experience to elevate your designs through its knowledge sharing. Learn more about the academy here.