The Learning Platform
The project learning platform takes you through the full making process using a variety of media - from a design workbook to 3D models and Tinkercad/Fusion 360 3D design tutorials.
In this project, you’ll be designing and making a suspension bridge model, before using it to learn about tension, compression and shear. View the project details below and start a free trial to PrintLab today!
Project Difficulty
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This project is rated as intermediate and is suitable for all those who have moderate-strong skills in 3D design and 3D printing.
Project Length
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The estimated project length is 2 hours, excluding any 3D printing time. This estimate includes designing and making 1 suspension bridge model. The project can be run in longer periods of time depending on the number of iterations you choose to make. We recommend breaking the project up into multiple sessions (e.g. 2 x 1 hour sessions), which will allow you to 3D print necessary objects between sessions.
Equipment Required
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To participate in this project, you will require:
- A laptop or computer with either Tinkercad or Fusion 360 software (both free for educational and personal use).
- 1 x pair of scissors
- 1 x ball of cotton string
- 1 x reel of knitting thread
- 1 x hot glue gun
- 1 x roll of masking tape
- 1 x A3 size base material e.g. 3mm foam board
Teacher Resources
With our education licenses, you can generate a share link to give your students access to the project learning platform. Each section of the platform also has a teacher instructions tab, which provides you with step-by-step lesson plan instructions.
Ready to Get Started?
This project is available to subscribers of PrintLab. Learn more about our license options and start a free trial today to access a whole range of resources across the fields of 3D printing, 3D design, assistive technology, product design and STEM.
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