3D Printing Basics: TinkerCAD & Bambu Labs
Created byJason Lagesse
18 views0 downloads

3D Printing Basics: TinkerCAD & Bambu Labs

Grade 9TechnologyOther1 days
In this 3D Printing Basics project for 9th-grade students, participants are introduced to 3D modeling using TinkerCAD and implement their designs with a Bambu Labs 3D printer. The project focuses on understanding the principles of 3D modeling, translating digital designs into physical objects, and exploring real-world applications of 3D printing technology. Key learning includes operating slicing software, adhering to safety protocols, and engaging in iterative design processes to refine prototypes based on test prints and feedback.
3D ModelingTinkerCADBambu LabsIterative DesignSafety Protocols3D Printing Applications
Want to create your own PBL Recipe?Use our AI-powered tools to design engaging project-based learning experiences for your students.
đź“ť

Inquiry Framework

Question Framework

Driving Question

The overarching question that guides the entire project.How can we use TinkerCAD and a 3D printer to transform a digital design into a functional physical object, and what are the real-world implications and safety considerations of this process?

Essential Questions

Supporting questions that break down major concepts.
  • What are the basic principles of 3D modeling?
  • How do digital designs translate into physical objects through 3D printing?
  • In what ways can 3D printing technology be applied in real-world scenarios?
  • What are the necessary steps to successfully print a 3D model from a digital file?
  • How does the use of TinkerCAD facilitate the design process for beginners in 3D modeling?
  • What safety measures should be considered when operating a 3D printer?

Standards & Learning Goals

Learning Goals

By the end of this project, students will be able to:
  • Students will understand the basic principles of 3D modeling using TinkerCAD.
  • Students will demonstrate the ability to design a simple object in TinkerCAD and prepare it for printing.
  • Students will learn how to set up and operate the Bambu Labs Slicer for 3D printing.
  • Students will understand the safety precautions necessary for operating a 3D printer.
  • Students will explore real-world applications of 3D printing technology.
  • Students will evaluate and make necessary modifications to their designs based on test prints and feedback.

ISTE Technology Standards

ISTE-TS.15.1.c
Primary
Design a prototype that meets a specific need using modeling software.Reason: Students will be using TinkerCAD to create 3D models, aligning with designing prototypes as per the ISTE standards.
ISTE-TS.15.2.b
Primary
Select and use hardware and software tools to explore questions and solve problems.Reason: Students will use both TinkerCAD software and Bambu Labs printer for creating and modeling solutions, which aligns with selecting and using tools for problem-solving.

Next Generation Science Standards

NGSS-ETS1-2
Secondary
Evaluate competing design solutions using a systematic process to determine how well they meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.Reason: Students will assess their designs and make adjustments based on constraints and requirements, aligning with evaluating design solutions.
NGSS-ETS1-4
Supporting
Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.Reason: Students will engage in iterative design processes using 3D models, which aligns with developing models for testing and modification.

Entry Events

Events that will be used to introduce the project to students

The 3D Printed World Challenge

Introduce students to the concept of creating a sustainable future using 3D printing. Present a scenario where 3D printing technologies are used to solve real-world problems like creating affordable housing or reducing plastic waste. Have students brainstorm and pitch their own projects using TinkerCAD and the Bambu Labs printer to address these issues.
đź“š

Portfolio Activities

Portfolio Activities

These activities progressively build towards your learning goals, with each submission contributing to the student's final portfolio.
Activity 1

TinkerCAD Sneak Peek

Introduce students to the TinkerCAD platform as their first step in 3D modeling. They'll explore basic tools and create their first 3D shape, gaining familiarity with the interface and controls.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Log into TinkerCAD and familiarize yourself with the user dashboard.
2. Complete the interactive walkthrough provided by TinkerCAD.
3. Experiment with basic tools to create a simple shape (e.g., a cube or cylinder).
4. Save your first design and prepare to show it to the class.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA saved TinkerCAD design file of a simple 3D shape.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with ISTE-TS.15.1.c by introducing modeling software and creating prototypes.
Activity 2

Build Your First Prototype

Students will use TinkerCAD to design a simple object with a practical purpose. This activity focuses on understanding design constraints and using design thinking to meet a specific need.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Identify a simple problem or need that can be addressed with a 3D printed object.
2. Sketch a basic design of the object on paper, considering dimensions and usability.
3. Use TinkerCAD to build a digital prototype of your design.
4. Review and refine the design based on feedback from peers or the teacher.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA digital prototype of an object designed to meet a specific need, saved in TinkerCAD.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsSupports NGSS-ETS1-2 by focusing on design solutions and meeting specific design criteria.
Activity 3

Slicer Software Setup

Guide students through setting up the Bambu Labs Slicer software. They'll learn the basics of preparing a digital model for printing, including configuring printer settings and understanding slicing techniques.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Download and install the Bambu Labs Slicer software on your computer.
2. Import your TinkerCAD design into the Slicer software.
3. Configure print settings such as layer height, infill density, and support structures.
4. Preview the slice of your design to ensure it will print correctly.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA prepared file ready for 3D printing using the Bambu Labs printer.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsAligns with ISTE-TS.15.2.b by selecting and utilizing digital tools for problem-solving.
Activity 4

Print and Iterate

Students will print their designs using the 3D printer. This activity emphasizes iterative design, as students print, evaluate, and refine their object based on real-world performance.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Transfer your file from the Slicer to the Bambu Labs printer.
2. Print your design and observe the printing process for any immediate issues.
3. Evaluate the printed object, focusing on functionality and aesthetics.
4. Return to TinkerCAD to make necessary modifications for improvement.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA physical 3D-printed prototype of the student's design with documented improvements.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsSupports NGSS-ETS1-4 by engaging in iterative testing and design modification.
Activity 5

Safety First Workshop

Educate students on safety measures and operational procedures required for 3D printing. Students create a safety guide to ensure safe operation of 3D printing equipment.

Steps

Here is some basic scaffolding to help students complete the activity.
1. Research best practices for safe 3D printer operation online.
2. Discuss with peers the implications of improper handling of 3D printers and related equipment.
3. Develop a list of safety rules and guidelines for classroom 3D printer use.
4. Create a safety poster or guide to share with the class.

Final Product

What students will submit as the final product of the activityA classroom safety guide for 3D printing operations.

Alignment

How this activity aligns with the learning objectives & standardsMeets the learning goal of understanding the necessary safety precautions in operating 3D printers.
🏆

Rubric & Reflection

Portfolio Rubric

Grading criteria for assessing the overall project portfolio

3D Modeling and Printing Competency Rubric

Category 1

3D Modeling Skills

Assesses the student’s ability to use TinkerCAD to create effective, functional designs that meet specified criteria and demonstrate understanding of basic modeling principles.
Criterion 1

Model Design Quality

Evaluates the functionality, creativity, and complexity of the 3D model created in TinkerCAD.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates a highly functional and complex design with innovative features that meet the defined criteria.

Proficient
3 Points

Creates a functional design that effectively meets the defined criteria with some creative elements.

Developing
2 Points

Design is basic and meets minimum criteria but lacks complexity and innovation.

Beginning
1 Points

Design does not meet the basic requirements or is incomplete.

Criterion 2

Use of Modeling Tools

Measures the ability to effectively use TinkerCAD tools and techniques to develop 3D designs.

Exemplary
4 Points

Masterfully uses a wide range of TinkerCAD tools with precision and efficiency.

Proficient
3 Points

Effectively uses TinkerCAD tools to create and modify designs with accuracy.

Developing
2 Points

Uses basic tools effectively but lacks precision in applying more complex functions.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to use basic functions and complete designs.

Category 2

3D Printing Process and Application

Assesses the student’s understanding and execution of the printing process from digital file preparation to physical output, including their ability to iterate and apply practical considerations.
Criterion 1

Preparation and Slicing

Evaluates readiness and accuracy in preparing files for 3D printing using the Slicer software.

Exemplary
4 Points

Prepares and slices the model flawlessly, showing deep understanding of slicing settings and implications.

Proficient
3 Points

Prepares and slices the model correctly, with clear understanding of necessary settings.

Developing
2 Points

Prepares and slices files with basic settings; limited understanding of advanced options.

Beginning
1 Points

Prepares files with errors, leading to unsuccessful prints.

Criterion 2

Iterative Design and Evaluation

Measures the student's ability to engage in the iterative design process including test printing, evaluation, and modification.

Exemplary
4 Points

Effectively uses feedback and test prints to substantially improve the model, showing high engagement in iteration.

Proficient
3 Points

Applies feedback effectively to make necessary design improvements.

Developing
2 Points

Makes some changes based on feedback but misses broader opportunities for improvement.

Beginning
1 Points

Minimal engagement in iteration or improvement of design.

Category 3

Safety and Real-world Applications

Evaluates the student's understanding of safety precautions and ability to identify real-world applications of 3D printing.
Criterion 1

Safety Awareness and Application

Assesses the student’s knowledge and application of safety procedures during the 3D printing process.

Exemplary
4 Points

Demonstrates comprehensive understanding and adherence to safety protocols, contributing proactively to safety planning.

Proficient
3 Points

Clearly understands and follows all safety guidelines, with some contribution to class safety resources.

Developing
2 Points

Has a basic understanding of safety but sometimes neglects guidelines.

Beginning
1 Points

Shows little awareness or neglects safety guidelines frequently.

Criterion 2

Real-world Application

Examines the ability to connect 3D printing activities with real-world problems and potential solutions.

Exemplary
4 Points

Identifies and articulates insightful connections, providing innovative examples of 3D printing solutions.

Proficient
3 Points

Makes clear connections to real-world applications and presents plausible examples.

Developing
2 Points

Identifies some connections to real-world scenarios but lacks depth and innovation.

Beginning
1 Points

Struggles to articulate real-world applications or provides vague examples.

Reflection Prompts

End-of-project reflection questions to get students to think about their learning
Question 1

Reflect on your journey of learning how to use TinkerCAD for creating 3D models. What aspects of the platform were easy to understand and which ones required more effort?

Text
Required
Question 2

On a scale from 1 to 5, how confident do you feel in your ability to design and print a 3D object independently using TinkerCAD and the Bambu Labs printer?

Scale
Required
Question 3

How do you envision the applications of 3D printing in addressing real-world issues and enhancing everyday life? Provide specific examples.

Text
Required
Question 4

What were the most significant challenges you faced while working with the Bambu Labs printer and slicer software, and how did you overcome them?

Text
Required
Question 5

In your opinion, what are the critical safety measures to remember when operating a 3D printer?

Multiple choice
Required
Options
Always supervise the printer while it operates
Regularly check for software updates
Wear protective gear when necessary
Ensure proper setup of the printing area