ENG

Languages

Tensegrity
This is a premium 3D lesson plan. Premium content is available to licensed YSoft be3D eDee users. Become a licensed YSoft be3D eDee user.
Premium Lessons are available to licensed be3D eDee customers only. Contact us to become a licensed be3D eDee customer by purchasing our EDU bundle. Already using eDee? Request your customer access code.

Tensegrity

This project highlights one of the current “hot topics” of 3D printing. Tensegrity is the principle of suspending non-continuous compression structures within a network of tension structures. These tensegrity principles are exhibited in the creation of “Impossible Tables”. These tables appear to defy the laws of physics and float in mid-air. Across 2 x 90-minute lessons, students will create their own “Impossible Tables” first in sketch form and then as 3D models which they will then 3D print.
Subjects
Design and TechnologySciencePhysicsComputing
Years | Grades
10th Grade | 14-15 years11th Grade | 15-16 years
Duration
Lesson 1: 90 minutes Print time: ~ 4 hours 30 minutes Lesson 2: 90 minutes

Tensegrity Trailer
Play 0:51

Objectives

  • Design and measure with precision
  • Understand and practice the tensegrity principles
  • Demonstrate how to align objects
  • Employ tolerances and offsets
  • Produce an “Impossible Table”  within the limitations detailed in the presentation
 

Tools and equipment

  • BE3D eDee printer and computer devices with CAD software
  • Example models
  • String or other tension 
 

Skill requirements

To participate in the lesson, students should be able to:
  • Use TinkerCAD, Fusion 360 or Similar CAD software at an intermediate level
  • Be comfortable with the principles of forces, tension, and compression
  • Be comfortable using DeeControl software including adjusting print settings
  • Use the BE3D eDee 3D printer

Tensegrity walkthrough
Locked 8:43

3D models overview

  • Total print time 11 hours 35 minutes
  • Total filament 43.2 m
  • Additional non-printable components
  • Printed all at once
BASIC TENSEGRITY PYRAMID BAR
  • 20 minutes
  • 0.6 m
BASIC TENSEGRITY PYRAMID TOP AND BOTTOM
  • 50 minutes
  • 3.2 m
BASIC TENSEGRITY ASSEMBLY
  • 1 hour 30 minutes
  • 7.2 m
TENSEGRITY TABLE BASE
  • 50 minutes
  • 3.6 m
TENSEGRITY TABLE BAR UPPER
  • 30 minutes
  • 1.3 m
TENSEGRITY TABLE BAR LOWER
  • 30 minutes
  • 1.3 m
TENSEGRITY TABLE REINFORCED (TOP AND BOTTOM)
  • 1 hour 15 minutes
  • 6.3 m
TENSEGRITY REINFORCED TABLE FORK
  • 1 hour 15 minutes
  • 1.3 m
TENSEGRITY TABLE REINFORCED LID
  • 2 hours
  • 9.1 m
TENSEGRITY TABLETOP
  • 1 hour 15 minutes
  • 5.1 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
This is a premium 3D lesson plan. Premium content is available to licensed YSoft be3D eDee users. Become a licensed YSoft be3D eDee user.
Back to lessons