Fusion fundamentals
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can transition from Tinkercad to Fusion, navigate the Fusion user interface and evaluate different types of 3D CAD modelling.
Key learning points
- Tinkercad and Fusion are cloud based CAD applications.
- Tinkercad is based on CSG, which makes it easy to use and accessible, especially for beginners.
- Fusion is a sketch based application, based on parametric modelling, giving users more control to create complex models.
- Fusion allows users to create complex assemblies, photorealistic renders and technical drawings.
Keywords
Constructive solid geometry - creating 3D models by combining simple shapes like cubes (boxes), cylinders, and spheres
Parametric solid modelling - creating 3D models as full, solid objects that have volume, mass, and can be tested or 3D printed, using editable parameters
Parameters - measurements and rules used when parametric modelling
Common misconception
All CAD modelling is the same, whether working in Tinkercad or Fusion.
Different CAD applications work in three distinct ways, constructive solid geometry, solid modelling and parametric modelling.
Teacher tip
Set up pupils with Fusion 360 accounts before the lesson. Autodesk education has clear instructions on how to set up and manage classrooms. Download and distribute the greenhouse model before the lesson.
Equipment
Access to Fusion. Downloadable greenhouse model.
File needed for this lesson
OAKgreenhouse 1.87 MB (STEP)
Download this file to use in the lesson.
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.CAD stands for Computer Design.
Q2.Tinkercad and Fusion are both -based CAD applications.
Q3.Which of these tools is best for beginners?
Q4.Match each term with its meaning:
software used for design
a digital representation of an object with height, width, and depth
runs online rather than being installed on a local computer
Q5.What can CAD software help designers do?
Q6.The three basic 3D shapes used in constructive solid geometry are cubes, cylinders, and ...
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which CAD tool is based on constructive solid geometry (CSG)?
Q2.Which CAD software uses parametric modelling?
Q3.In parametric solid modelling, are the measurements and rules that define and control the model.
Q4.Match each program to its main characteristic:
simple and shape-based (CSG)
sketch-based, parametric control
photorealistic images of models
Q5.Which of these is an advantage of Fusion over Tinkercad?
Q6.Tinkercad is ideal for beginners, while Fusion offers more control for users.
To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Fusion fundamentals, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 10 design and technology lesson on: Fusion fundamentals, 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.
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