Project Overview:
This project introduces students to computer-aided design (CAD) by having them create a unique, symmetrical snowflake using mirroring techniques. Students will design a snowflake that can be either 3D printed or cut as a paper snowflake. Advanced students can extend the project by designing multi-layered, kinetic wind spinner snowflakes, and incorporating customizations or functional parts.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand and apply symmetry and mirroring techniques.
- Develop CAD skills by drawing, mirroring, and creating patterns.
- Experiment with different levels of design complexity, with options for assembly and kinetic functionality.
- Explore advanced CAD techniques like parametric design, textures, and custom features.
Materials:
- Access to CAD software (e.g., Tinkercad, Fusion 360, SolidWorks)
- 3D printer (optional for printing snowflakes)
- Paper and scissors (for paper snowflakes)
- String or fishing line (for wind spinner)
- Strong cardstock or another stiff material (for advanced projects)
- Optional: LED lights for enhanced designs
Instructions:
Step 1: Introduction to Snowflake Symmetry and Design
Begin by discussing the natural six-fold symmetry of snowflakes, highlighting how each “arm” or segment is a mirror image of others. Use real and CAD-generated snowflake examples to illustrate symmetry and patterns.
Key Concepts to Cover:
- Symmetry and Mirroring: The basics of using mirrors in design to achieve symmetry.
- Patterning: How replicating small shapes can create a full snowflake.
Step 2: Create Your Snowflake Design (Basic Level)
- Draw the Base Shape: Start by drawing one small shape, like a triangle, star, or curve, in CAD. This shape will become the “arm” of the snowflake.
- Mirror the Shape: Use the mirroring tool in CAD to reflect the shape across a central line to achieve symmetry.
- Repeat and Rotate: Rotate the mirrored shape around a center point in a six-fold pattern. Experiment with variations to make each design unique.
- Add Details: Enhance the design with additional shapes, but keep all additions symmetrical.
Step 3: Preparing for 3D Printing or Paper Cutting
- 3D Printing: Export the snowflake as an STL file, prepare it for 3D printing, and adjust print settings based on the printer.
- Paper Cutting: Print the design on paper, then fold and cut to create a symmetrical paper snowflake.
Advanced Design Options
For experienced students, additional elements can add complexity and challenge:
Advanced Project Elements
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Multi-Layered and Textured Snowflakes:
- Encourage students to create stacked layers in the CAD design with varying shapes, contours, or decorative patterns. They can add engravings or textures to represent ice crystals or detailed surface designs.
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Parametric Design with Adjustable Features:
- Students can use parametric CAD tools to create a design that can be resized or customized by adjusting parameters. This feature allows for creating snowflakes with adjustable arm lengths, pattern density, or symmetry types.
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Modular Snowflake with Functional Parts:
- Design each arm of the snowflake as a separate piece, which can snap or interlock with other parts to form different arrangements. Students can add snap-fit joints or interlocking tabs for assembly and even test the strength of these joints.
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Wind Spinner Mechanism:
- Create a kinetic snowflake by adding multiple concentric layers that are connected but can spin independently. This involves designing holders or mounts for each layer, so it rotates smoothly when hung up. Connect layers with string or thin wire, and add a hook or loop for hanging.
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Incorporating LED Lights or Glow Effects:
- Design small chambers in the snowflake structure to hold LED lights or glow-in-the-dark material. This adds a lighting element, making the snowflake visually dynamic. Students should consider the light paths, balance, and how parts will hold together.
Evaluation Criteria:
- Creativity: Unique and imaginative use of symmetry and patterns.
- Symmetry and Precision: Accurate mirroring and symmetry in the design.
- Complexity: For advanced projects, consider the intricacy and balance of the final design.
- Functionality: If a wind spinner, it should rotate smoothly and maintain balance.
Reflection Questions:
- What design choices helped you create a unique snowflake?
- How did using symmetry and mirroring affect the way your design developed?
- What challenges did you face with the advanced options (e.g., modular parts, spinning mechanism)?
Extensions:
- Material Exploration: Test the designs with different materials like acrylic or wood.
- Seasonal Designs: Extend this concept to other holiday shapes, such as leaves for autumn or flowers for spring, each with similar symmetry principles.
This project combines creativity with CAD and engineering principles, providing students with an engaging and hands-on way to explore both basic and advanced design concepts.