3D Printing Certification

The LEVEL 1 3D Printing Certificate at NAU will offer a unique experience that ranges from state-of-the-art software in computer-aided-design (CAD) and computer-aided-manufacturing (CAM), to general manufacturing and 3D printing/additive manufacturing-specific techniques. The Certificate will be a NON-credit micro-credential. The Certificate will be housed in the Mechanical Engineering (ME) department.

The Certificate starts students out in a computer-aided-design software package where they will learn the fundamentals of engineering graphics specific to mechanical design. Students will then learn about various manufacturing techniques (including 3D printing) for them to understand how to properly select the appropriate processes for manufacturing a solution. Then finally, the students will finish the certification by gaining more 3D printing-specific CAD-CAM knowledge, practice printing parts on machines at NAU, and ultimately generating a solution to a real-world problem of their own – if they wish.

How long will the certification take to complete, and when does the course begin?

The certificate coursework will occur across two weeks – one week of asynchronous/remote activities (July 15-21) and one week of in-person/on campus activities (July 22-28). Expect to dedicate 10-15hrs during the first week on your own time and 15-20hrs the second week in person – though more time may be available in the labs if needed/if wanted.

What do I need to take the course?

A computer is needed by the student along with internet connectivity to the quality needed for video consumption and file submission. For ease of accessibility during the certificate, software has been selected for ease of learning and diversity in devices that could be used. Specifically, Onshape will be used for its cloud-based CAD which lends itself well to be used on any computer, through any web browser, or as an application on devices such as tablets. Ultimaker Cura was selected for our general 3D printing CAM/Slicer needs because of its wide range of usability from novice to expert. Other CAM software may be used in the IDEA lab as well – such as GrabCAD print. If the student would like to use Solidworks and/or Fusion 360, the certificate instructor and staff will be able to support that as well. A 3D printer is not needed for this certification as students will be interacting with 3D printers on campus. But a hobby-scale printer would be a good companion purchase if the student would like to gain more hands-on learning. If desired and would like some feedback, reach out to the instructor for recommendations.

Is there a syllabus?

Yes, of course! You can see the tentative learning outcomes below.

Introduces the basics to the design process.

LO1 – Overview of the design process including problem definition, design space research, concept generation, selection criteria generation, final concept selection, design analyses, design for manufacturability (DfM), parts acquisition, manufacturing processes, assembly, testing, and iterating – among other topics.

Fundamentals of graphical communications, including sketching, computer-aided drafting, design, and parametric modeling.

LO1 – Fundamentals of graphical communication including engineering graphics.
LO2 – Basic sketching by hand – an overview.
LO3 – Understanding of the computer aided design (CAD) software environment.
LO4 – Basic sketches in CAD.
LO5 – Basic parts in CAD.
LO6 – Introduction to assemblies in CAD.
LO7 – Introduction to drawings in CAD.

Presents and analyzes manufacturing processes, including additive and subtractive manufacturing.

LO1 – Introduction to subtractive manufacturing processes – basic metal machining.
LO2 – Introduction to subtractive manufacturing processes – advanced metal machining.
LO3 – Design for Manufacturability (DfM) – an introduction.
LO4 – Manufacturing processes through manufacturing process sheets.
LO5 – History of 3D printing/Additive Manufacturing.
LO6 – Additive Manufacturing technologies.
LO7 – Additive Manufacturing processes and workflow.
LO8 – Additive Manufacturing materials.
LO9 – Additive Manufacturing applications.
LO10 – Additive Manufacturing pros/cons, suitability, impacts, value to education and industry.
LO11 – Other additive manufacturing processes – including composites and how they apply to 3D printing processes.
LO12 – Additive manufacturing DFM.
LO13 – Additive Manufacturing post-processing and other manufacturing processing towards a final part.

Fundamentals in CAM specific to 3D printing/additive manufacturing.

LO1 – Familiarization with CAM software
LO2 – Additive manufacturing DFM – final thoughts.
LO3 – File compatibility.
LO4 – Material selection, handling, and properties.
LO5 – Print Resolution.
LO6 – Print Infill.
LO7 – Print support.
LO8 – Print Adhesion.
LO9 – Extrusion speed and nozzle travel.
LO10 – Part Slicing.
LO11 – Process simulation and process time estimation.
LO12 – G-code.

Gain in-person experience printing parts on 3D printers at NAU.

LO1 – Printer familiarization.
LO2 – bed preparation and leveling.
LO3 – Filament handing.
LO4 – Extruder and Nozzle preparation.
LO5 – Test printing and print troubleshooting.
LO6 – Print post-processing.
LO7 – Unique prints specific to the students.
LO8 – Printer cleanup, maintenance, and care.

Meet the Instructor

Dr. David Willy

David Willy is a Senior Lecturer of Mechanical Engineering (starting AY19-20) at Northern Arizona University (NAU), where he has been since 2012. He is currently teaching various courses in thermal fluids, renewable energy, and design. David is also currently pursuing a doctoral degree in Earth Sciences and Environmental Sustainability with an emphasis in Engineering Sustainable Systems at Northern Arizona University.

Prior to his current work, David performed wind and solar variability and grid integration research for the Institute for Sustainable Energy Solutions (ISES) at NAU both as a graduate student and as a part time faculty member. He has professional experience in renewable energy, manufacturing, design, and contract engineering.