Art Connector Set (SVG Conversion Project)

thingiverse

In this project, students will embark on a fascinating journey of transforming 2D drawings created on paper into intricate 3D printed shapes. Each student will have the opportunity to create two completed designs that can be combined with their classmates' work to produce unique and dynamic sculptures. The process involves several crucial steps, yielding long-lasting results. Overview and Background As art and sculpture continue to intersect with digital manufacturing processes, this class provides a comprehensive introduction to the possibilities arising from this fusion of technology and creativity. Depending on the grade level and access to computers, teachers may need to work outside of class to ensure a seamless experience for their students. Lesson Plan and Activity Step 1: Introduction Share sculptures that are modular and 3D printed, sourced from the References Section. Display pictures of the desired outcome and example STL connector pieces from this project's thing files. Step 2: Drawing Distribute handouts to students. Provide tracing paper and black markers for them to draw within a circle, incorporating cut-out shapes along multiple edges. Encourage creativity while ensuring designs fit within the specified circle size for the Tinkercad sizing step. TINKERCAD and 123D Design For instructions using MakerBot PrintShop, scroll down Step 3: Photographing or scanning Scan or photograph selected drawings one at a time. Maintain high contrast and use black and white if possible. Crop out any unnecessary parts of the image to focus on the art itself. Step 4: Converting to SVG Visit http://image.online-convert.com/convert-to-svg and upload drawings for conversion. Once converted, download the new SVGs into your downloads folder. Step 5: TinkerCad Import SVGs into TinkerCad, noting that they may appear large but will scale down accordingly. Use the ruler tool to resize one circle to 50mm x 50mm. Ensure each circle is 3mm tall. Apply templates (connector hole template & pencil hole template) to check size and make necessary adjustments for accuracy. Export STLs Bring STLs into MakerBot Desktop, where students can select colors for their designs (e.g., all red designs should be grouped together). Finally, print the connectors. MAKERBOT PRINTSHOP variation Step 3-4: Printshop Photograph each drawing using the iPad app. Step 5: Sizing in MakerBot Desktop Using the Scale Sub Menu in MakerBot Desktop, resize objects to 50mm by 50mm by 3mm (uniform scaling may need to be disabled). Step 6: Printing Printing two connectors per student should take approximately one hour. Step 7: Assembly Combine all pieces and build the sculptures. Supplemental Cardboard Connectors can be created using handouts, cardboard, scissors, and paint for added visual appeal. Extension Activity This activity would replace the drawing component, where students create connectors entirely on a computer. Open the handout in Illustrator and use the pen tool to draw patterns within a circle. Import these designs into TinkerCad as precise cuts. Rubric and Assessment Grade artwork according to standard rubrics used for other art projects. Handouts and Assets: * Svgartconnectorset_handout.pdf * 2 STL templates to be brought into TinkerCad as holes for precise cuts References: Stackable Sculpture: https://a.1stdibscdn.com/archivesE/upload/3558712/f_3681762/3681762_z.jpg, http://cdnstatic.visualizeus.com/thumbs/07/fb/generativeart,modularstructure,parametricarchitecture-07fbff47f49b98bf8fe7e0c3b820541e_h.jpg, http://static.squarespace.com/static/53402a9ce4b016f70ff71f5e/53407815e4b05778b71af7c4/534078efe4b05778b71b0e37/1396734191418/reach-sculpture-dror-3.jpg?format=original, http://www.thecreativehome.com/blogs/creative-home-reader/14746943-let-a-thousand-modules-bloom 3D printed sculpture: http://georgehart.com/sculpture/gyrangle.html, http://n-e-r-v-o-u-s.com/projects/albums/colony/, http://nickervinck.com/en, http://www.digital-grotesque.com/ Objectives and Standards Objectives: * 2nd to 3D conversion * Drawing accuracy * Small components can make larger objects * Classroom Collaboration * Combining building materials Skills Learned (Standards): * VA:Cr1.1.3a: Elaborate on an imaginative idea. * VA:Cr1.1.2a: Brainstorm collaboratively multiple approaches to an art or design problem.