Problem: We are unable to 3D Print from Chromebooks

With 3D Printing, the main issue is that we are using Chromebooks, which do not support the Windows software required to access a slicing app. This means we are currently unable to print. [IT Admin] is aware of this and suggested using REALvision online. However, this platform requires a monthly subscription, and during my trial run, I also discovered that the STL code I downloaded did not show on the printer when I attempted to use it via USB.

Solution: Use the .gcode file and/or manufacturer's free-to-use cloud platform

3D Printing: The REALvision Online and USB Issue

The problems you've described with REALvision are common and highlight a key troubleshooting step.

Why the .STL file didn't work:

An .STL file is the 3D model itself. It's a universal format for the shape of an object. A 3D printer cannot read an .STL file directly. It needs a set of instructions on how to build that shape, which are contained in a G-code file (usually with a .gcode extension).

• The purpose of a slicing app (like REALvision, FlashPrint, Cura, etc.) is to take the .STL file, "slice" it into horizontal layers, and generate that G-code with all the print settings (like temperature, speed, infill, etc.) included.

The Solution and Next Steps for the School:

1. Revisit the REALvision Online Workflow:

   • Instruct the user to load the .STL file into REALvision Online.

   • Once the model is placed and settings are adjusted (if necessary), they must click the "Slice" or "Print" button within the REALvision interface.

   • The platform will then process the file and generate a .gcode file. This is the file that needs to be downloaded to the Chromebook.

   • This .gcode file is the one that gets transferred to the USB drive and then to the printer.

2. Address the Subscription Concern:

   • Acknowledge that subscription costs are a valid concern.

   • Suggest a follow-up conversation with teacher(s) and school administration to discuss budget for an online slicing platform.

   • Mention that some printers (like the Flashforge Adventurer and Creality K1C we discussed) have their own free-to-use cloud platforms, which might be a better long-term solution than a third-party paid service. This could be a consideration for future equipment purchases.

3. Troubleshooting the USB Drive:

   • If the correct .gcode file is not appearing on the printer's display, it's a separate issue. This is likely due to the printer's firmware and how it reads the USB drive.

   • Common culprits:

     • File Naming: Some older printers or firmware versions are very picky about file names. Advise keeping the file name short, with no spaces or special characters.

     • USB Drive Format: The USB drive may not be formatted correctly for the printer. Most printers require a FAT32 format. The school's IT staff might need to reformat the USB drives to ensure they are compatible.

     • Corrupted File: The G-code file may have been corrupted during the download or transfer process. Suggest trying to download and transfer the file again.

Conceptually: 3D Printing

• .STL vs. G-code:
  The fundamental difference between a 3D model file (.STL) and a printer instruction file (.gcode) is a core concept in 3D printing.
  Any official documentation or tutorial from a slicing software developer (like REALvision, Ultimaker Cura, etc.) will explain this process. A quick search for "STL to G-code conversion" or "what is a slicer" confirms this.

• Web-based Slicers:
  The existence and function of cloud-based slicers like REALvision Online, 3DPrinterOS, Polar Cloud, and AstroPrint is well-documented.
  These platforms are specifically marketed as solutions for users on Chromebooks or other devices where desktop software is not an option.

  • REALvision Online:
    Their website explicitly states that it is a "browser-based slicer software that turns STL files into G-code files on any device."

  • Flashforge and Creality Cloud Platforms:
    Both Flashforge and Creality maintain their own cloud ecosystems (Flashforge Cloud/FlashMaker and Creality Cloud) that allow for remote management and cloud slicing, bypassing the need for their desktop slicer software.

Source: Google Gemini Pro