Tinkercad

Learning to Use Tinkercad

We're going to be using an online program called Tinkercad to create our designs. This is a powerful tool to make 3D shapes. If you have used SketchUp before, then you should be comfortable using Tinkercad with only a little practice.

To log in to Tinkercad, copy the class code below and then click on the bookmark at the top of Chrome. Your nickname is your STEM group name (ex. STEM6a)

Class Code: QFHYFVQVLFIV

In order to limit your frustrations with using Tinkercad, your group must complete a set of tutorials. To get credit for each tutorial, make sure to take a screenshot of each one and add them to your planner. Click on this link to get a special page for your project planner designed specifically for groups using Tinkercad. Make sure to copy this slide into your planner and complete the tutorials (with screenshots) in order to move on.

Choosing Your Project!

Now that you've learned the basics it's time to decide what you're going to create! Check out the MakerBot Thingiverse or Tinkercad Gallery for some inspiration. Have a great idea?

While 3D printers can be used to make things like tags with your name on it, we're looking to take it to the next level. Here are some project ideas. Each one requires careful planning, problem solving, and effort.

      • Invention - create something that solves a real life problem and/or is useful to you (Example)
      • Architecture - design a cityscape, famous building, or a model of your house (Example)
      • Action Figure or Figurine (Example)
      • Miniature Board Game Pieces (Example)
      • Jewelry (Example)

Make sure to check with Mr. Steinbach to make sure it will work.

Preparing For Printing

Now that you've created an amazing product in Tinkercad it's time to prepare it for the printing. We have two different 3D printers currently in our STEM lab, three of the Dremel 3D40 printers and one of the Dremel 3D45 printers. You will need to follow different steps depending on which printer you will be using.

Before you start printing, we'll need to determine how much your print will cost to print. At this time we are limiting printing amounts to no more than $3.00 per group. If your total is greater than $3.00, you'll need to go back and make tweaks to your design in Tinkercad or scale your model to be smaller using the Dremel software. Product engineers around the world are always tweaking and making compromises in their products to meet their own target costs. Prototypes of your project do not count towards your $3.00 total.

3D Printing with the Dremel 3D40

Printing Your Project

Printing is the most exciting part of this engagement! Unfortunately, printing can take anywhere from 20 minutes to ten hours. With this in mind, we'll need to strategically decide when to print each of your projects (meaning not during class).

More coming soon...