Lesson 9: Digital Hearts and Minds: 3D
Printing
Suggested Time: 60 minutes
Overview
Students will learn how 3D printing works, discover its medical
applications, and explore CAD software.
Vocabulary
- 3D printing
-
3D modeling
-
Additive manufacturing
- Computer Aided Design (CAD)
Objectives
- Students will learn about the importance and function of machines,
programming, and technical expertise in biomedical engineering.
-
Students will become familiar with 3D printing and modeling.
Required Project
Materials
- Sketchup 3D Modeling program:
http://www.sketchup.com
- Computer lab with Sketchup installed
Multimedia Resources
- Videos, graphs, and text at “What is 3D Printing?”
http://3dprinting.com/what-is-3d- printing/
-
“Breakthrough in Heart Technology.”
http://www.childrensdmc.org/3DHeart
-
“The Chemputer That Could Print Out Any Drug.” The Guardian.
http://
www.theguardian.com/science/2012/jul/21/chemputer-that-prints-out-drugs
Optional Multimedia
Resources
Before the Lesson/ Background
Information
- If possible, arrange for a trip to see a 3D printer in action, or have
a 3D printer technician or CAD designer assist with the lesson.
-
Print articles and share “What is 3D printing” on an overhead or
projector so that you can work through the article and show videos.
-
Download Sketchup to class computers and make sure it works.
The Lesson
Part 1: 3D Printing (20
mins)
- After allowing the students to turn in or share their reports from the
previous class session, read through “What is 3D Printing” with the
class and show the videos.
-
Separate the class into two reading groups. Distribute the “Heart
Technology” and “Chemputer” articles, one article per group. After
reading and discussing the articles, each group will summarize the
article for the class.
-
Discuss other possible medical applications for 3D printing.
Part 2: CAD Modeling (40
mins)
- Students will explore the CAD software, Sketchup.
-
If you have access to a 3D printer or have identified a location for a
field trip, students may design a few models to be printed (depending
on the parameters for using the printer, and resources available).
Homework:
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