3D Printing
This collection of 3D printed projects showcases the remarkable work of students across a variety of fields, from architecture to jewelry design to board games. Each project offers a unique and engaging challenge, encouraging students to explore their creativity, develop technical skills, and think critically about the world around them. From designing prosthetics for those in need to exploring the fascinating history of sand sculpture art, these projects highlight the power of 3D printing to inspire innovation and creativity in young minds.
FUNKO POP CAREER CREATION
Our eighth-grade students embarked on an exciting project where they designed personalized Funko Pop figures representing their dream careers. Utilizing MakerBot Sketch 3D printers, tinkercad, and various art materials, they brought their visions to life, applying the engineering design process and hands-on skills from 3D printing to painting. This project not only showcased their creativity but also allowed them to express their future aspirations, culminating in a proud presentation of their customized Funko Pops to their peers.
MELODY MAKERS:
3D PRINTED PAN FLUTES
Eighth-grade students at our school embarked on an innovative project to design and produce pan flutes, drawing inspiration from global designs. Using a blend of modern MakerBot 3D Printers and traditional hand tools, they not only enhanced their understanding of music and technology but also honed skills in 3D modeling and digital fabrication. This cross-age collaborative effort resulted in the successful creation of both 3D printed and handmade flutes, exemplifying the integration of technology in music education and the practical application of research and design skills.
Empowering Others: A Student's Journey in 3D Printed Prosthetics
In this inspiring independent study project, a high school student partnered with the e-NABLE organization to design and build a 3D-printed prosthetic hand using various materials and a 3D printer. Through persistent trial and error, the student overcame challenges and ultimately created a functional and practical solution that could help improve the lives of those in need. This project allowed the student to develop valuable STEM skills while making a meaningful contribution to the community. (Photo credit:e-NABLE)
Kingdoms Collide: A Ninth Grader's Epic 3D Printed Chess Set
In this impressive project, a ninth-grade student used AutoCAD to design and 3D print a creative and themed set of chess pieces. Through meticulous planning and precise execution, the student demonstrated a mastery of STEAM skills and a passion for design and innovation. The end result was a stunning and functional chess set, showcasing the student's dedication and creativity in bringing their vision to life.
Orthographic Odyssey: Exploring 3D Modeling and Printing
In this project, students dive into the world of 3D modeling using AutoCAD to recreate a object based on a reference drawing. They bring their creation to life through 3D printing and evaluate the results, discovering firsthand the difference between theory and practice. With valuable lessons learned, this project is sure to inspire budding engineers and artists alike.
A Sweet Partnership: 3D Printing for Baking Fun
Collaborating with a family and consumer science teacher, SUNY Oswego tech students teamed up with advanced foods class to design and 3D print a set of sugar cookie cutters. The advanced food class used them to create fun and festive cookies, decorating them with frosting and other embellishments. This project combines the worlds of technology and culinary arts, and inspires creativity and collaboration among students.
Soluxe: The Solar-Powered Luxury Cruiser Design Challenge
High school students embark on an exciting project to create a solar-powered luxury car using cutting-edge technology. With the help of AutoCAD software, they design and engineer every detail of the vehicle, from its aerodynamic shape to the placement of the solar panel. The students then bring their vision to life using 3D printers to produce custom parts and components. Finally, they assemble the car, fitting it with wheels, axles, and a motor to make it fully functional. This project not only teaches valuable skills in engineering and design but also promotes sustainable energy solutions for a greener future.
Project Overview
This section contains descriptions of the projects completed by my students, providing a glimpse into the kinds of assignments we work on together.
Printing the Wild:Merging Tech and Ecology
In a unique collaboration with the ecology teacher, a group of curious students embarked on a fascinating project studying the bone structure of an animal species found in the woods near their school. Armed with the latest technology, the students located skull models online, which they 3D printed to understand the animal's anatomy better. These intricate models proved to be invaluable tools in the students' research and helped them prepare for an exciting presentation that left their classmates and teacher in awe. This hands-on learning experience not only deepened the students' appreciation for the natural world but also sparked a newfound interest in technology and innovation.
The Art of the Cylinder: Exploring Lieberman's Work
In this exciting design challenge, students pay homage to the distinguished artist, Alexander Lieberman. Using the cylinder command and a range of other tools, students are inspired to create a sculpture based on Lieberman's work at the Storm King Art Center. With a wide range of primary forms, and the freedom to experiment with the push/pull and move/copy commands, students can unleash their imaginations and produce fascinating and original designs. With 3D printing technology, the students' artistic visions and technical prowess come to life, bringing this captivating project to a stunning conclusion.
The Fountain of Creativity: Commemorating 135 Years of Community
In this remarkable project, high school students were tasked with designing a stunning fountain that would be placed in the center of town to commemorate the upcoming 135th anniversary in 2027. With AutoCAD, students were able to bring their creative visions to life by developing detailed 3D models of their designs. The final step involved printing scaled models of the fountain, giving students the chance to showcase their technical expertise and design talents. The breathtaking and innovative creations that emerged from this project are sure to leave you in awe.
Inspiring Architecture: Middle Schoolers' Journey in 3D Printing and Assembling a Scale Model
This engaging project allowed students to apply their STEAM skills to create a stunning and intricate 3D printed and assembled scale model of a famous building. Through research and design, the students gained an appreciation for the architectural complexities of the structure, and honed their modeling and printing abilities. This project challenged the students to think critically, work collaboratively, and embrace creativity in bringing this building to life in a unique and tangible way.
Preserving History through STEAM: High Schoolers' Innovative 3D Printed Model
In this exciting project, students worked closely with their local historical society to research and recreate a historic building or house in REVIT. Using the surrounding area's architectural styles and time period, the students designed a detailed model of the structure and 3D printed it. Through collaboration with the historical society, the students gained valuable knowledge of the building's history and context and developed critical STEM skills in the process.
The Egyptian Connection: 3D Printed Products for the MET
Students embarked on a creative journey to design and 3D print a unique product from the categories of stationery, home decor, toys and games, jewelry, office supplies, and tech accessories. The goal was to create a product that MET could sell in 2026 to commemorate 120 years of archaeological work. The product had to incorporate an Egyptian symbol, shape, or form. Students brought their ideas to life with 3D printing and created captivating commercials using Flipgrid, showcasing their commercial and creative skills. With technical and artistic expertise on display, this project was both fun and educational."
The Art & Science of Japanese Puzzles
This captivating project showcased the students' technical and creative abilities as they designed, printed, and assembled a 3D Japanese Puzzle box using AutoCAD. The students gained valuable experience in CAD design, 3D printing, and problem-solving as they worked through the complexities of this challenging puzzle. The end result was a beautifully crafted and functional box, showcasing the students' mastery of STEM skills and their passion for hands-on learning.
Sandscapes: A 3D Sand Sculpture Challenge
This project is a journey through the fascinating history of sand sculpture art. Through the use of 3D shape commands in AutoCAD, students create intricate and detailed designs that incorporate cultural influences from various historical periods, including ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and medieval. Infused with a modern twist or personal flair, students produce unique and captivating designs that pay homage to the past. With 3D printing, students are able to bring their designs to life, showcasing both their artistic and technical skills.
Luminosity: Designing a Table Lamp Inspired by Josef Hoffmann
In this exciting challenge, students have an opportunity to take their design skills to the next level. Drawing inspiration from the work of Josef Hoffmann, students are tasked with creating an elegant table lamp that is both functional and visually appealing using AutoCAD. By using 3D shape commands and geometric shapes, students incorporate Hoffmann's style while also adding modern technology to their designs. With the power of 3D printing technology, students can see their designs come to life and showcase their technical and artistic abilities in a meaningful and creative way.
The Beauty of Assemblage: Student's Masterpiece in Louise Nevelson-Inspired 3D Printed Sculpture
This exciting project allowed students to explore the world of sculpture and modern art through the creation of a Louise Nevelson-inspired piece. Using AutoCAD, the students designed a detailed and intricate sculpture and then brought it to life with 3D printing. The project challenged the students to think creatively and technically, while also encouraging them to embrace artistic expression and individuality.
Jewels of the Trade: A Design Challenge for Aspiring Jewelers
In this exciting project, students take on the challenge of designing a jewelry set for the prestigious brand, Tiffany and Co. Through the use of AutoCAD commands, students master the art of creating a polished and sophisticated look with chamfer edge and fillet edge commands. Using a range of 2D and 3D commands, students are able to craft a necklace, earrings, and a ring, each piece showcasing unique materials. With the final sets printed and presented to the class, this project highlights the technical expertise and artistic ingenuity of students, while also allowing their fashion sense to shine.
Mix and Match: A 3D Character Creation Challenge
n this engaging project, students unleash their creativity by taking inspiration from the character creation game to design unique and exciting characters. With a set of three different STL files, students use 3D Builder to break down and rearrange these models into three parts. From a president donning a Captain America suit while riding an eagle, to Albert Einstein sporting a propeller hat while riding a bicycle, the possibilities are endless. After refining their designs, students bring their characters to life with 3D printing
The Board Game Remix: Redesigning Traditional Game Pieces
Students experiencde the world of board games in a whole new way with this project. Through the use of 3D builder, students are given the opportunity to create their own unique set of game pieces for popular board games like Monopoly, Clue, or Sorry. Students can choose to redesign existing pieces or even create new ones, demonstrating both their technical and creative abilities. The 3D printer brought their designs to life, allowing students to fully immerse themselves in their newly crafted game pieces and the timeless gameplay that they love.