While we have, of course, had a number of classes visit for research projects, lessons, and support, the theme for early January has definitely been on making with our 3D printer and other makerspace resources.
Maker Fair
On Thursday, January 14, we had a great maker fair after school, with activities from the Geeks Club, Library Club, Art Club, Robotics Club, and Girls Coding Club. Students got to experience a wide variety of activities, including:
- designing in 3D using these “Sharpie Drawing to 3D Object” directions (bit.ly/2Dto3Dprint) and getting their projects printed with the help of the Geeks Club
- experimenting with Google Cardboard virtual reality and littleBits electronics, also with the help of the Geeks Club
- making pinwheels as a community service project in support of Syrian youth, organized by the Library Club (Get information on the community service project here.)
- manipulating robots in a fun competition from the Robotics Club
- making art from recycled books, organized by the Art Club
- programming our Sphero and BB-8 robots with the help of the Girls Coding Club
Many thanks to all the clubs and students who participated.
Here’s a slideshow with photos of some of the activities and student creations:
Computer Science Class 3D Projects
Mr. Braskin and Mr. Brennen’s Computer Science classes visited the library to learn about 3D printing, then embarked on a project in which they:
- programmed a 2D geometric shape using Scratch, a programming language
- converted their file to .svg format, which is readable by 3D modeling software
- imported their files into Tinkecad.com, a 3D modeling app
- exported their files to .stl format for printing on the 3D printers
They all came up with amazing, unique designs. Here are just a few examples:
And, to follow up this first project, they are now working in teams to design chess pieces we will be printing.
Stand by for some of these examples!
Malik’s iPhone Stand
In a recent posting, I wrote about how projects often require several design iterations and printer adjustments to make them work, representing an exercise in persistence. Here’s Malik’s Phone stand completed!
More Photos
For more photos of our 3D printing activities, visit this Flickr album.