Uploaded September 2022 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
To get the best out of 3D printing, it helps if you can design your own parts. In this tutorial series, we will learn to use a free 3D CAD program to do just that.
In this episode, we explore the concept of variables in CAD. By creating a named value outside of any sketches or features, we can then reference that value and use it to drive geometry. If the design needs changing, only a single variable needs editing rather than going through and editing each feature. Variables offer an efficient way to make your design flexible.
0:00 Introduction
3D design for 3D printing Onshape playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGqRUdq5ULsONnjEEPeBxxStEsobDKAtV
Direct link to create a free account: onshape.com/en/products/free
Source CAD for tutorials: cad.onshape.com/documents/b5475ccd1f83733e348c59b0/w/f0f78c61f2ac76b0b03c0692/e/2693d666ff5f1d3749f8b85d?renderMode=0&uiState=62fb0fbda209767dfe1e6bf0
0:38 Variables in CAD and why they are useful
Threadless ballscrew by 2n2r5: thingiverse.com/thing:124706
OpenSCAD: openscad.org
2:35 What we are designing/modifying
Underhouse workshop video: youtu.be/X7ThDy2a3gw
3:41 Taking measurements
Digital calipers on Amazon : amzn.to/3Bu6yjN
4:18 Simplified example of variables
6:13 Using simple maths with variables
6:57 Setting draft angle with a variable
8:14 French cleats design using variables
9:50 Printing and testing the final parts
Buy quality and affordable filament from X3D. Buy 3, get 1 free and a free sample pack with every order: www.x3d.com.au
Get Quality Resins from 3D Printers Online. 5% off storewide for Teaching Tech subscribers [Code: tech5]
https://3dprintersonline.com.au/
Take a look around and if you like what you see, please subscribe.
Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/teachingtech
To get the best out of 3D printing, it helps if you can design your own parts. In this tutorial series, we will learn to use a free 3D CAD program to do just that.
In this episode, we explore the concept of variables in CAD. By creating a named value outside of any sketches or features, we can then reference that value and use it to drive geometry. If the design needs changing, only a single variable needs editing rather than going through and editing each feature. Variables offer an efficient way to make your design flexible.
0:00 Introduction
3D design for 3D printing Onshape playlist: youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGqRUdq5ULsONnjEEPeBxxStEsobDKAtV
Direct link to create a free account: onshape.com/en/products/free
Source CAD for tutorials: cad.onshape.com/documents/b5475ccd1f83733e348c59b0/w/f0f78c61f2ac76b0b03c0692/e/2693d666ff5f1d3749f8b85d?renderMode=0&uiState=62fb0fbda209767dfe1e6bf0
0:38 Variables in CAD and why they are useful
Threadless ballscrew by 2n2r5: thingiverse.com/thing:124706
OpenSCAD: openscad.org
2:35 What we are designing/modifying
Underhouse workshop video: youtu.be/X7ThDy2a3gw
3:41 Taking measurements
Digital calipers on Amazon : amzn.to/3Bu6yjN
4:18 Simplified example of variables
6:13 Using simple maths with variables
6:57 Setting draft angle with a variable
8:14 French cleats design using variables
9:50 Printing and testing the final parts
Buy quality and affordable filament from X3D. Buy 3, get 1 free and a free sample pack with every order: www.x3d.com.au
Get Quality Resins from 3D Printers Online. 5% off storewide for Teaching Tech subscribers [Code: tech5]
https://3dprintersonline.com.au/
Take a look around and if you like what you see, please subscribe.
Support me on Patreon: patreon.com/teachingtech
