Unit 3: Inventions and Prototype Printing

 

Unit Overview/Goal:

In this unit we learned about how innovative thinking changes the world. We started by doing some research on big projects and inventions that are happening right now, such as Google Loon. This invention’s goal is to bring the internet to places that do not currently have access. The hope of the project is that by giving everyone access to the internet it will bring positive change to the world. We then starting thinking about everyday inventions that exist. Some are small and some are big, but all bring some conveience or positive change to the person using them. I research and shared with the class an invention on a bowl that can be microwaved and not burn your hands when you take it out of the microwave. During this part we worked on our presentation and sales pitch skills. Then I had to think of my own invention. I had three initial ideas, and narrowed it down to one. I decided to design a chip bag holder that kept chip bags open and easy to eat from. I first had to make sure I planned what I wanted the invention to look like, and most of all carefully planned all my measurements. After learning how to use a new 3D designing software called 123D Design, I began to design my invention. I had to print a couple of test prototypes before my final design functioned and was printed. I also added artistic elements so that it would be attractive for people to want to buy. At the end of the unit I presented my invention in front of the class, using good presentation and sales skills.

 

Enduring Understandings:

 

• How can innovation change the world in a positive way?

Innovation can change the world in a positive way because it can help make things in the world a lot better and more efficient. It can allow the world's technology to advance which is good because there are many things that needs to be advanced. Technology has been innovated because of Cruise Automation, they are a company that wants to make budget cars not need a driver in order to go around. This is very innovative because it can help many people who need a car but are not in the correct physical condition or if the driver does not feel like driving. Drivers can also use the automatic driving system when they do not feel like driving or if they need to rest when driving long distances.

 

• Why is the revision process important and how do we use revision in our design process?

Revision is important to 3D design because if I did not think back about what I did wrong on my first prototype I would not have been able to make it better and make it work because I would not have realised I did anything wrong. I use revision by printing a prototype and testing it, if it does not work I will go back and change the measurements according to how the test went in order to let it work.