Model a moving part in Tinkercad
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can use the connectors in Tinkercad to simulate movement.
Key learning points
- In Tinkercad, movement can be simulated using three types of connectors: axle, pivot, and slider.
- The axle connector allows one part to rotate around another.
- The pivot connector allows parts to swing or rotate around a fixed point.
- The slider connector allows parts to move back and forth in a straight line.
Keywords
Axle connector - allows parts to rotate around another, like a wheel on an axle
Pivot connector - allows parts to swing or rotate around a fixed point, like a door on a hinge
Slider connector - allows parts to move back and forth in a straight line, like a drawer
Static - stays still and does not move during a simulation
Simulate - physics based digital simulation of CAD models
Common misconception
Simulating in Tinkercad is exactly like physical testing.
Tinkercad is excellent for digitally testing ideas, but you should always expect to make adjustments when you build the physical models.
Teacher tip
Use the search function in Tinkercad to find existing models that have been simulated to help with explanations.
Equipment
Computers/laptops, mice, access to Tinkercad.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Match the term to the key word.
movement from one place to another
a rigid (stiff) bar that turns around a fulcrum
a set of levers joined together to transfer and control motion
a mechanical component that converts rotary motion into linear motion
Q2.Which path does rotary motion follow?
Q3.What is the pivot point called on a lever?
Q4.Match the class of lever to the benefits.
reduce effort, make lifting heavy loads easier
can change force or speed, change direction
increase speed and range of motion, useful for precision
Q5.What linkage is found on the brakes of a bicycle?
Q6.Which cam's follower would stay still for part of the turn, then quickly rise and fall?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which connectors are used in Tinkercad to simulate movement?
Q2.Which connector is pictured?
Q3.Before experimenting with the pivot connector, users must decide which parts of the model need to remain __________ and which will move.
Q4.The Tinkercad slider connector allows parts to move ...
To help you plan your 7 design and technology lesson on: Model a moving part 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: Model a moving part 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.