Design and simulate in Tinkercad
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can design and simulate a complex robot using Tinkercad.
Key learning points
- In Tinkercad Sim Lab, you can test designs using simulations that include gravity, collisions, and material properties.
- Simulating is physics based digital testing of CAD models.
- Several editable variables can be changed in Sim Lab to produce more realistic simulations.
- Model paths can be traced to compare the performance of different materials when simulating.
- Basic stability rules should be followed when modelling to ensure parts can be simulated.
Keywords
Simulation - physics based digital testing of CAD models
Connector - joins parts together allowing movement
Stability - the extent to which a model is likely to fall over if a force is applied
Material - what an object is made from
Common misconception
All models can be simulated successfully in Sim Lab.
Before being simulated in Sim Lab, models need to be well-designed and stable, considering static and moving parts.
Teacher tip
Like physical experimentation, ask pupils to change one aspect at a time when simulating.
Equipment
Computers/laptops, mice, access to Tinkercad.
Licence
except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the connector to the function.
allows parts to rotate around another, like a wheel on an axle
allows parts to rotate around a fixed point, like a door on a hinge
allows parts to move back and forth in a straight line, like a drawer
Q2.What should you do to ensure a part spins on centre when using an axle connector?
Q3.When adding connectors in your model, you might want certain parts to not move and be ...
Q4.The pivot connector relies on two parts, one static and the other ...
Q5.What would you click to add more control to your simulation by using the keyboard?
Q6.Which is correct definition for simulate?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Tinkercad Sim Lab allows based digital testing of CAD models.
Q2.What is the area called where a simulation happens?
Q3.What variables can be changed on an axle connector continuous motor?
Q4.Model can be traced to compare the performance of different materials when simulating.
To help you plan your 7 design and technology lesson on: Design and simulate in Tinkercad, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 7 design and technology lesson on: Design and simulate in Tinkercad, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 3 design and technology lessons from the Prototypes with mechanisms: robotics and automation unit, dive into the full secondary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.