Principals of symmetry

In this lesson, you will learn about the different forms and classifications of symmetry. You will then progress to learn about the 7 primitive crystal systems, including how to classify them based on their features of symmetry. Next, you will need to research the tetragonal and hexagonal crystal systems before designing and modelling a hexagonal dipyramid for 3D printing. Finally, If you manage to master all that, the next step is to classify a real-world mineral by its crystal structure and model it.
Subjects
Design and TechnologyMathematicsScienceGeographyMasaryk University
Years | Grades
8th Grade | 12-13 years9th Grade | 13-14 years10th Grade | 14-15 years11th Grade | 15-16 years
Duration
Lesson 1: 90 minutes Lesson 2: 90 minutes Print time: ~ 50 minutes

Principals of symmetry trailer
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Objectives

  • Design and measure with precision
  • Demonstrate how to align objects
  • Understand and execute the boolean operation in CAD
  • Demonstrate a working knowledge of the 7 Primitive Crystal Systems
  • Design and 3D print an example of a Hexagonal Dipyramid Crystal
  • Correctly classify real-world minerals by their Crystal system
 

Tools and equipment

  • Graph paper and pencils
  • Real-world Mineral examples
 

Skill requirements

To participate in the lesson, students should be able to:
  • Use TinkerCAD, Fusion 360 or Similar CAD software at a beginner level
  • Be comfortable using DeeControl2 software including adjusting print settings
  • Use the BE3D EDEE 3D printer

Principals of symmetry WALKTHROUGH
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3D models overview

  • Total print time 46 hours 20 minutes
  • Total filament 295 m
  • Additional non-printable components
  • Printed all at once
TRICLINIC
  • 3 hours 30 minutes
  • 30 m
TETRAGONAL
  • 3 hours 30 minutes
  • 20 m
RHOMBIC
  • 13 hours
  • 100 m
MONOCLINIC
  • 9 hours
  • 54 m
HEXAGONAL
  • 2 hours 15 minutes
  • 15 m
DITRIGONAL
  • 9 hours
  • 67 m
CUBIC
  • 1 hour
  • 4 m
HEXAGONAL DIPYRAMID
  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • 3 m
trigonal DIPYRAMID
  • 2 hours 15 minutes
  • 3.6 m
Note: Values are calculated for one set of models.

Lesson resources

  • Lesson plan
  • Example models
  • Worksheet
  • Walkthrough
  • Presentation
  • 3D models
  • 3D print instructions
  • Curriculum alignment