Challenging tomorrow’s engineers

3-D High School Competition

Students from Rock Hill, Northwestern and Fort Mill high schools will compete in the Design and Build…3D on Thursday, May 15, 2008, at 3D Systems University in Rock Hill, S.C.

The event combines leading-edge 3D Systems technology and real-world solutions with the fun and excitement of team competition. Students will learn first hand about rapid development technologies.

The Challenge

Students, guided by a coach and supported by professional mentors, will work in teams to research, document, design and build a functional 3-D windmill model capable of generating power.

Students will:

• Define the problem
• Document their research and potential solutions
• Design the solution
• Build and test the solution on a 3-D Modeler

The Results

This adventure in learning uses leading-edge technology, real-world applications and the magic of discovery to provide a broad perspective of potential career opportunities for young people in the world of science, engineering and manufacturing.

Skills to gain:

• Develop teamwork and problem solving skills
• Have fun applying math, science and engineering concepts
• Utilize the scientific method for thinking and problem solving
• Build self-confidence and learning skills
• Compete and celebrate success
• Discover new skills and interests

The Design and Build…3D competition is co-sponsored by 3D Systems and York Technical College.

Teams are sponsored by the Rock Hill Business and Technology Center, Comporium Communications and Duke Energy.

The Windmill Challenge

Overview

The windmill dimensions are constrained by the dimensions of a wind tunnel designed to test the model. The diameter of the windmill can be no larger than 7.5 in. The thickness of the windmill must be no greater than 2 in. with a center hub (mounting flange) 0.5 in. thick with a diameter of 1.375 in. The hub should have three 0.125 in. holes spaced equally (120° apart) on a 1 in. diameter circle at the center of the mounting flange for attaching the rotor to the generator.

A standard generator is selected to create measurable output. Specifications for interfacing the generator are provided to all participants and a single generator will be used in competition to eliminate variation in generator output.

Competition

For 30 points, documentation covering:

• Team organization
• Research process
• Design and Build process
• The written report could include
  • The final 3-D model
  • Inventor drawings (part drawing with dimensions)
  • If multiple parts, the exploded assembly drawing with balloons and a parts list
  • Results of stress test/mass properties analysis

For 30 points, elegance of design based upon:

• Simplicity
• Creativity
• Beauty

For 40 points, power generation performance

Leadership Team

Pat Lyons, Fort Mill High School
Mack Bailey, Rock Hill High School
Bill Beaver, York Technical College (3D Systems University)
Dr. Marc Tarplee, York Technical College
Dr. Dennis Merrell, Consultant for 3D Systems