Kinetic Sculpture Design Project

Blending art and engineering, kinetic sculptures showcase motion through cleverly arranged parts and linkages. In this project, students follow a guided design while learning the basics of surface modeling for artistic features and using assemblies to build mechanical motion. These projects include documents, videos, and step-by-step instructions.

• Grade: 9-12
• Length: 8-10 hours
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Software: SOLIDWORKS xDesign (though SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD can also be used)
• Learning Objectives: Design, fabricate, and experiment with a kinetic sculpture. Learn foundational CAD skills, while being introduced to key concepts in motion planning. Explore how different mechanisms can produce a variety of movements.
• Materials Needed: Filament (approximately 117g)