Flying Glider Design Project

In this STEM project, students will design a flying glider to be manufactured from a thin and light material like balsa wood or foam board. In the design process, students will have the opportunity to apply design intent for their glider in CAD software. Students will manufacture their designs by exporting DXF files as drawings to be imported to laser cutting software. These projects include documents, videos, and step-by-step instructions.

• Grade: 6-8
• Length: 1-2 hours
• Difficulty: Easy
• Software: SOLIDWORKS xDesign (though SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD can also be used)
• Learning Objectives: Design, model, laser cut, and assemble a flying glider that soars through the air. Learn and apply basic CAD design skills to design the glider. Use fundamental physics and STEM principles to influence design. Learn the process of using a laser cutter.
• Materials Needed: Balsa wood, foam board, or equivalent (1/16"-1/8" thickness, 12" x 6" sheet size or larger), Super glue