The 3D printed bottle rocket project
Over the course of 4-5 weeks, small groups of students learn to build different parts of an Ultimaker 3D printer and assemble them all together. They later use the 3D printer to design and develop parts for their bottle rocket project. By offering the 3D printing class as an elective course, the students taking part in it are motivated and eager to learn more about 3D printing and design.
The bottle rocket project revolves around designing specific parts of the rocket. The shape of the wings and the sharpness of the nose cone all influence the flight the rocket will make, and thus need to be considered. After designing all the parts, the rocket is assembled and launched. It is a fun and inclusive project, with many opportunities to link it to mathematics and science.