Marble Run Design Project

Marble runs are a common outlet for innovation and creativity among students and engineers alike. In this project, you design and fabricate a modular marble run to learn the basics of CAD and 3D printing and explore more complicated modular design principles. These projects include documents, videos, and step-by-step instructions.

• Grade: 9-12
• Length: 8-10 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Software: SOLIDWORKS xDesign (though SOLIDWORKS 3D CAD can also be used)
• Learning Objectives: Design, fabricate, and experiment with a completely modular marble run. Enhance CAD and design knowledge with an in depth exploration of modular design principles. Develop a working understanding of the iterative design process and develop 3D printing skill. Enforce understanding of physics concepts such as, energy transfer, friction, and inertia.
• Materials Needed: Filament (approximately 335g), Marbles (approximately 0.63in diameter), Plywood or equivalent material (optional), Screws (optional)