Recently, I ( @Ankish ) found a 3D pen in our lab #ScienceActivityCentre and was instantly intrigued by its potential for creating mathematical patterns and unique designs. While our lab is already equipped with a 3D printer, which I’ve been using extensively over the past few months to learn 3D design, slicing STL files, and crafting interesting prototypes, this 3D pen opened up new possibilities.
In addition to my personal projects, I’ve also guided several BS-MS students in designing and printing 3D objects, fostering a collaborative learning environment. With the 3D pen, I saw an exciting opportunity to engage school students and teachers in creating hands-on activities.
However, my enthusiasm was briefly challenged by technical issues with the pen, including:
- The pen not heating as described in the manual.
- A stuck motor.
- PLA material jams.
- Inconsistent melting of PLA.
- Random noises from the pen during use.
I took on the STEM challenge to troubleshoot and repair the pen. With my precision screwdriver and a curious mind, I tinkered with its components, identified the problems, and successfully repaired it.
Now, the 3D pen is back in action, ready to create innovative designs for our upcoming workshops. This journey has not only deepened my understanding of 3D technology but also highlighted the importance of problem-solving and resilience in STEM. I’m excited to use this tool to inspire creativity and learning in our educational programs!
