Robotics by TK

  So the other day, I lost two essential parts from a STEM toy kit. Not to worry I can always print a replacement , I thought.  I opened up OnShape and got to modelling. Using Vernier callipers, I measured their sizes and made exact dimensions on my CAD model.  Now, 3D Printers aren't usually very precise. You should account for a 0.03-0.05 mm tolerance when making a CAD Model. Because when I would print the part, and measure it with Vernier Calipers the holes would be smaller by about 0.03 mm. This meant that the part wouldn't fit in the holes. You can offset this by using the Hole Expansion setting in Cura, which works perfectly fine. But when it comes to the parts that need to be fitted, changing the settings in your CAD model is the way to go. I printed many versions of the hexagon shaft part, until I made one that fit perfectly with the other stem toy parts. Looks pretty nice, doesn't it?

Anyone who works in the 3D Printing sphere can attest that Meshmixer is an amazing software when it comes to mesh repair, cutting up prints into smaller parts and for adding some last minute digital sculpt alterations to our models. But how would one even get to enjoy what Meshmixer has to offer if it crashes every time you open it? Well, luckily I have found a solution for this! Firstly, make sure you have tried the solutions given in the official Meshmixer FAQ page. If it still doesn't work, then you can try solution number two! From my limited understanding (and scouring of internet forums), the problem could be that we do not  have a graphics card that has built-in OpenGL support. Thus, we need to place the opengl32 library file in Meshmixer's file location. Here is the link for the opengl32.dll file. But a google search for opengl32.dll will help you find another link as well. (Note the size should be 25MB so be mindful of that when installing the file.) This video  helped