Project: 3D Printable Keychain

Objective

Students will learn the basics of 3D design using Tinkercad and create a personalised keychain that can be printed using a 3D printer.

Materials Needed

• Computer with internet access

• Tinkercad account (free to create)

• 3D printer (optional for printing the final design)

Steps

1. Create a Tinkercad Account

• Go to the Tinkercad website and sign up for a free account if you don't already have one.

2. Start a New Project

• Log in to Tinkercad.

• Click on "Create new design" to start a new project.

3. Understand the Interface

• Familiarise yourself with the Tinkercad interface, including the workplane, shape library, and editing tools.

4. Design the Keychain Base

• Select a basic shape (e.g., a rectangle or circle) from the shape library.

• Drag the shape onto the workplane and resise it to your desired keychain dimensions (e.g., 50mm x 20mm x 3mm).

5. Add Text

• Select the "Text" tool from the shape library.

• Drag the text onto the workplane and type your name or any text you want on the keychain.

• Resize and position the text on top of the base shape.

6. Create a Hole for the Keyring

• Select a cylindrical shape from the shape library.

• Resize the cylinder to a small size (e.g., 5mm diameter).

• Position the cylinder at one end of the keychain base.

• Change the cylinder to a "hole" by selecting the "hole" option in the shape properties.

7. Group the Shapes

• Select all the shapes (base, text, and hole).

• Click on the "Group" button to combine them into a single object.

8. Export the Design

• Click on the "Export" button.

• Choose the STL file format for 3D printing.

9. Print the Keychain (Optional)

• If you have access to a 3D printer, import the STL file into your 3D printer software and print the keychain.

Additional Tips

• Encourage students to experiment with different shapes and text styles.

• Discuss the importance of dimensions and tolerances in 3D printing.

• If a 3D printer is not available, students can still share their designs digitally or use online 3D printing services.

Learning Outcomes

• Understand the basics of 3D design and modeling.

• Gain hands-on experience with Tinkercad.

• Learn the process of creating and exporting 3D printable files.

• Develop problem-solving and creative thinking skills.

This project is simple enough for beginners but also allows for creativity and personalisation, making it an ideal introduction to 3D design for Year 10 .