Birth of the Solar System

The Birth of the Solar System takes students on a tour of our Solar System before challenging them to print Saturn and the planet’s rings.
Subjects
Design and TechnologyScienceMathematicsComputing
Years | Grades
9th Grade | 13-14 years10th Grade | 14-15 years11th Grade | 15-16 years
Duration
Lesson 1: 90 minutes Print Time : Dependent upon model Lesson 2: 90 minutes

Birth of the Solar System trailer
Play 0:52

Objectives

  • Research and design a model of the Solar System or planet therein 
  • Using a 3D CAD program, 3D model your design
  • Slice, print and assemble your model
 

Tools and equipment

  • BE3D eDee printer and computer devices with CAD software
  • Resource materials or access to the internet
  • Glue for assembly (as required)
 

Skill requirements

To participate in the lesson, students should be able to:
  • Be comfortable navigating the internet in a safe manner to research their chosen planet(s)
  • Be able to use physical research materials to research their chosen planet(s)
  • Use TinkerCAD, Fusion 360 or similar CAD software at a beginner/intermediate level
  • Be comfortable using DeeControl software to adjust print settings
  • Use the BE3D eDee 3D printer

Birth of the Solar System walkthrough
Locked 8:23

3D models overview

  • Total print time 7 hours 50 minutes
  • Total filament 18.8 m
  • Additional non-printable components
  • Printed all at once
Saturn top
  • 3 hours 30 minutes
  • 8.8 m
Saturn bottom
  • 3 hours 30 minutes
  • 8.8 m
Saturn stand
  • 50 minutes
  • 1.2 m
SOLAR SYSTEM
  • 10 hours 30 minutes
  • 29.5 m
Note: Values are calculated for one set of models.

Lesson resources

  • Lesson plan
  • Example Saturn model
  • Worksheet
  • Walkthrough
  • Presentation
  • 3D models
  • 3D print instructions
  • Curriculum Alignment: ISTE standard compliant