Embedded Files
What is functionality?
What is functionality?
Functionality means design thinking with a purpose so they are useful.
To do this we think about the following:
When designing for functionality, think about what the object needs to do. For example, a phone stand needs to hold a phone at the right angle.
Measuring is important to make sure your design fits real-world objects (like a phone or a pencil).
Testing means trying out your design and making improvements if something doesn’t work.
Trialling means getting feedback from other people to get their thoughts about how it could be improved
Iterating means gradually improving your design using all of this information.
Your job now is to create functional objects.
Creating Your Own Projects
Creating Your Own Projects
The Design Process:
The Design Process:
Ask – What do you want to create?
Choose a project idea (e.g., keychain, phone stand, mini house).
Think about its purpose and how it will be used.
Imagine – What will it look like?
Sketch your idea on paper, labeling key parts.
Consider what shapes you’ll need to build it in Tinkercad
Plan – How will you make it?
Open Tinkercad and start with basic shapes.
Arrange and resize the shapes to match your design.
Create – Build your model!
Use Tinkercad tools like "Hole" to cut spaces and "Align" for precision.
Adjust sizes, angles, and positioning as needed.
Test – Does it work?
Check all sides of your design using the "View" tools.
Ensure all parts are properly connected and the dimensions are correct.
Improve – Can you make it better?
Make adjustments to fix any issues.
Try adding extra details or refining the shape.
Reflect – What did you learn?
Look at your final project and think about what worked well.
Consider what you would change if you did it again.
Now create something else!
Your Project
Your Project
Using these mini projects, your job is to turn it into a functional 3D design that you can print. Use the list on the left to make it as good as you can.
Have a go!
Have a go!
Now you've got the skills, it's time to have a go at some of these cool projects! You'll have the opportunity to print your favourites too... That comes next!
1. Custom Keychain
Task: Design a keychain with your name, a fun shape (like a star, heart, or animal), or a simple pattern.
Skills Learned: Using basic shapes, adding text, grouping objects, and creating a small, functional item.
2. Mini Cookie Cutter
Task: Create a small cookie cutter in the shape of a star, heart, or other simple shape. Use the "Hole" tool to cut out the center.
Skills Learned: Working with the "Hole" tool, designing functional objects, and understanding how shapes can be used in real-world applications.
3. Personalized Jewellery (Pendant or Ring)
Task: Design a pendant for a necklace or a ring. Add patterns, initials, or small shapes to make it unique.
Skills Learned: Using the "Text" tool, creating small and detailed designs, and exploring how 3D printing can be used in fashion and art.
4. Mini Plant Pot
Task: Design a small plant pot with a hole at the bottom for drainage. Add patterns or textures to the sides to make it unique.
Skills Learned: Designing for functionality (drainage hole), using the "Workplane" to add details, and creating decorative elements.
5. 3D Figure (Animal or Character)
Task: Create a simple 3D figure, like an animal (e.g., a cat, dog, or bird) or a character (e.g., a robot or monster). Use basic shapes to build the body, head, and limbs.
Skills Learned: Combining shapes creatively, using the "Group" tool, and designing fun, imaginative objects.
6. Got another idea?
Have a go!!
Page updated
Report abuse