Multicolour 3D-Printed Geovisualisation

Jevaughn Leighton HENRY

Master's thesis

Abstract:

In the dynamic intersection of Geoinformatics and 3D printing, the exploration of multicolour 3D geovisualisations emerges as a crucial area of research. This diploma thesis aimed to investigate and evaluate the potential for creating multicolour 3D geovisualisations using Fused Filament Fabrication type 3D printers and associated tools. To achieve this aim, the objectives included the preparation of ten models of varying complexity to test the capabilities of the available multicolour printing equipment in the 3D Laboratory of the Department of Geoinformatics at Palacký University Olomouc, the development and optimisation of printing parameters for achieving high-quality prints, and the creation of a comprehensive multicolour 3D printing booklet for knowledge dissemination within the department. Additionally, the study aimed to assess the environmental impact of multicolour 3D printing, particularly focusing on waste material. The data used to create the models in this research was acquired from the Copernicus Land Monitoring Service, OpenStreetMap, ARCDATA PRAHA and other sources. The data was processed using ArcGIS Pro and QGIS and then 3D modelling was carried out in primarily in SketchUp. Other tools such as 3D Builder and Autodesk Netfabb were used for editing the models to make them ready for printing. The models were configured and sliced in PrusaSlicer, Canvas and Bambu Studio to create the G-code for printing. The models were printed using the Prusa i3 MK3S, Palette 3 Pro, Bambu P1S, Bambu AMS and Prusa XL. Post-processing steps were carried out to refine the final products. User testing was conducted to gain valuable feedback and assess the quality of the models. The results of which were critically reviewed and implemented where possible. Adobe InDesign and other Creative Cloud tools were used to design the booklet documenting the key steps in the research. The final output of the diploma thesis included 14 multicolour 3D geovisualisations and a corresponding booklet documenting the key insights gained throughout the research. Based on the equipment tested, the Prusa XL was the most efficient at producing the models, however, the cost of the printer may be prohibitive. The use of a multi-material add-on to a single extruder printer provides a good balance between price and functionality, with a significant increase in waste and print time. However, this option offers the best value and is more likely to be adopted by a wider audience.

Abstract:

In the dynamic intersection of Geoinformatics and 3D printing, the exploration of multicolour 3D geovisualisations emerges as a crucial area of research. This diploma thesis aimed to investigate and evaluate the potential for creating multicolour 3D geovisualisations using Fused Filament Fabrication type 3D printers and associated tools. To achieve this aim, the objectives included the preparation of ten models of varying complexity to test the capabilities of the available multicolour printing equipment in the 3D Laboratory of the Department of Geoinformatics at Palacký University Olomouc, the development and optimisation of printing parameters for achieving high-quality prints, and the creation of a comprehensive multicolour 3D printing booklet for knowledge dissemination within the department. Additionally, the study aimed to assess the environmental impact of multicolour 3D printing, particularly focusing on waste material. The data used to create the models in this research was acquired from the Copernicus Land Monitoring Service, OpenStreetMap, ARCDATA PRAHA and other sources. The data was processed using ArcGIS Pro and QGIS and then 3D modelling was carried out in primarily in SketchUp. Other tools such as 3D Builder and Autodesk Netfabb were used for editing the models to make them ready for printing. The models were configured and sliced in PrusaSlicer, Canvas and Bambu Studio to create the G-code for printing. The models were printed using the Prusa i3 MK3S, Palette 3 Pro, Bambu P1S, Bambu AMS and Prusa XL. Post-processing steps were carried out to refine the final products. User testing was conducted to gain valuable feedback and assess the quality of the models. The results of which were critically reviewed and implemented where possible. Adobe InDesign and other Creative Cloud tools were used to design the booklet documenting the key steps in the research. The final output of the diploma thesis included 14 multicolour 3D geovisualisations and a corresponding booklet documenting the key insights gained throughout the research. Based on the equipment tested, the Prusa XL was the most efficient at producing the models, however, the cost of the printer may be prohibitive. The use of a multi-material add-on to a single extruder printer provides a good balance between price and functionality, with a significant increase in waste and print time. However, this option offers the best value and is more likely to be adopted by a wider audience.

Keywords

Multicolour 3D Printing, 3D Modelling, Fused Filament Fabrication, 3D Maps, Terrain Models, City Models

Language used: English

Date on which the thesis was submitted / produced: 20. 5. 2024

Thesis defence

• Supervisor: Mgr. Radek Barvíř, Ph.D.

Palacký University Olomouc

Faculty of Science

Master programme / field:
Geoinformatics and Cartography / Geoinformatics and Cartography