Intro to 3D Printing

Learning a new skill can be challenging and the learning curve can be steep. This project can help. In a 90-minute lesson, students transform from beginners, with no prior knowledge of 3D printing, to capable 3D modelers. As a reminder of their new 3D printing abilities, they will receive their own personalized bag tag. Students are introduced to the history and evolution of 3D printing including an overview of the two most commonly used families of 3D printers. After a quick pop quiz, students are challenged to follow a walkthrough and model their own bag tag before personalizing it with their names.
Subjects
Design and TechnologyArt and DesignComputingHumanitiesScience
Years | Grades
8th Grade | 12-13 years9th Grade | 13-14 years10th Grade | 14-15 years11th Grade | 15-16 years
Duration
Lesson 1: 90 minutes Print time: ~ 40 minutes

Intro to 3d printing trailer
Play 0:30

Objectives

  • Expand and explain the abbreviations “AM”, “FDM/FFF” and “SLA/DLP”
  • Explain the FDM process
  • Use a 3D model and 3D print their own bag tag
 

Tools and equipment

  • BE3D eDee 3D printer
  • Internet-enabled computer and mouse
  • CAD software (TinkerCAD / Fusion360 or similar)
  • DeeControl layering software
 

Skill requirements

To participate in the lesson, students should be able to:
  • Use a computer with a mouse and keyboard
  • That’s all
  • No really, that’s all

Intro to 3D printing walkthrough
Locked 4:16

3D models overview

  • Total print time 3 hours
  • Total filament 5 m
  • Additional non-printable components
  • Printed all at once
Heart-shaped bag tag
  • 30 minutes
  • 0.7 m
Oval bag tag
  • 30 minutes
  • 0.6 m
Small oval bag tag
  • 30 minutes
  • 0.6 m
Star shaped bag tag
  • 30 minutes
  • 0.6 m
Generic bag tag
  • 1 hour
  • 2.2 m
Note: Values are calculated for one set of models.

Lesson resources

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