Three 3D printer projects for schools
Do you want to invest in a 3D printer for your school but need some inspiration about how to use…
Do you want to invest in a 3D printer for your school but need some inspiration about how to use it in your lessons? Bringing any technical piece of equipment into a learning environment can be daunting, but 3D printers are becoming easier to use and more popular!
In this article, we look at some simple 3D printer projects for schools that will help students solve a variety of design challenges using skills like problem-solving and logic.
How do 3D printers work?
3D printing is the process of making a solid, three-dimensional object from a digital file. You can create your digital file using 3D CAD software like Tinkercad (which is free and contains many tutorials, lesson plans and ready-made designs).
To build your 3D model, the printer uses a piece of software called a “slicer” which converts the object in the digital file into a series of 2-dimensional layers. The 3D printer applies the raw materials (e.g. plastic or metal) and builds the 3D object layer by layer, until it’s finished according to the design specs in the CAD file.
How can I use 3D printers in my classroom?
3D printers allow your students to bring objects out of the computer screen and into the real world!
Popular in subjects like engineering, design and technology, and maths, 3D printers can also be used in many other subjects!
For example, you could create models of famous landmarks for a geography class, or ancient relics for a history lesson.
The beauty of these devices is that they really bring the abstract to life. They also allow students to grow in confidence and improve their problem-solving abilities by learning how to use the equipment and overcoming any hurdles they encounter along the way.
Three 3D printer projects for schools
So, let’s take a look at three projects you could try out in your school:
1) Research and create a model landmark
Ask your students to research a country and choose an iconic landmark to create a model of. This can be a challenging design exercise as they’ll need to pay attention to the landmark’s features and shape to recreate it in 3D!
2) Design a keyring
Ask your class to design and print their own customised keyring. There are endless designs to choose from, including anything from their initials to the name of their favourite band.
As well as encouraging their creativity, this project will also get kids thinking about scale and functionality. It’s a fun and simple project to introduce them to the possibilities of 3D printing!
3) Create a scale model
For a project that’s a bit meatier, why not ask them to design a scale model? This is a fantastic way to combine their Maths and Engineering skills as they’ll need to take and convert measurements accurately to ensure they create a model that’s built to scale. There are so many options to choose from here, from their school to Buckingham Palace!
These are just a few ideas for 3D printer projects for schools, there are many more! At Utility Rentals, we have an awesome selection of school-friendly 3D printers. We even have models with lockable lids for primary schools!
Our flexible rental packages include a host of useful benefits including installation, training (to get you feeling confident with the technology), ongoing support, and a parts and labour breakdown warranty covering the whole of the rental term.
If your school wants to invest in 3D printers for your budding designers, contact our expert team!
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