* This is a free lesson that is part of The PrintLab Classroom lesson portal. To view details of the full portal, click here. *
This creative project has been created in collaboration with HiveHaus, a company specialising in innovative, modular architecture. During the project, students will begin by learning about the HiveHaus concept, which is based on pre-fabricated, hexagonal 'cells' that connect in a flexible, adaptable and affordable way. Following their research, students will be given a brief to design a HiveHaus structure for their school! They will draw their design ideas and pick their pre-fabricated components before drawing their designs in CAD software. The models will then be 3D printed and used in presentations to explain their design thinking.
The lesson can be incorporated into the study of design technology, art and design, computing and maths. The material can be adapted for ages 10-16.
In this project students will:
- Develop an understanding of the architectural components of the HiveHaus structure
- Identify social and educational requirements of their school to develop a design brief
- Consider aesthetic and functional aspects to design an architectural concept
- Use 3D printing to manufacture a prototype model
- Communicate their design thinking, using their prototype model as a presentation tool
Each student will require:
1 x laptop/computer with mouse and internet access
1 x student workbook (PDF file included in lesson materials)
The teacher will require:
1 x 3D printer and PLA filament
1 x laptop/computer with mouse, internet access, and slicing software for the 3D printer
5 x 5m+ measuring tape
