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Stage 02 of 04 · Builder

Engineering with CAD

Parametric CAD: things that fit other things.

3D / CAD

Ages
12 – 17
Duration
10 weeks
Prereq
C5 Make It Real helps.

What students learn

Professional parametric CAD. Sketches that drive geometry, constraints, assemblies, design-for-print (overhangs, tolerances, supports), slicer settings that actually matter. The bridge from “shapes in a browser” to “things that fit other things.”

Parametric CAD mental model. Design-for-manufacture instincts. The ability to read a real engineering drawing. Iterating across print-measure-fix-reprint cycles.

Module-by-module

  1. Sketching with intent

    Sketches, constraints, dimensions. Parametric box that resizes cleanly.

  2. 3D operations

    Extrude, revolve, sweep, loft. Cylindrical container with snap-fit lid.

  3. Assemblies

    Multiple parts, joints, motion. Robot gripper that opens and closes in CAD.

  4. Design for print

    Overhangs, tolerances, fillets, supports. Printable model + plan.

  5. Slicer deep-dive

    Layer height, infill, supports, retraction. Tuned print profile.

  6. Iteration loop

    Print, measure, fix, reprint. Three versions of one part.

  7. Mid-project: real problem

    Student picks something to fix at home. Working solution.

  8. Documentation

    Drawings, dimensions, BOM. Engineering drawing pack.

  9. Final project, part 1

    Multi-part assembly. CAD complete.

  10. Final project, part 2

    Print and assemble. Physical demo + design review.

What they make

A multi-part 3D-printed assembly that solves a real problem at home or school.

Walk away with

Parametric CAD mental model. Design-for-manufacture instincts. Engineering-drawing literacy.

Free resources we recommend

  1. Onshape Education

    Professional CAD in the browser. Apply for the Education plan for private docs.

    Onshape (PTC); founded by the SolidWorks team.

    Browser CAD + Learning Center

  2. Blender + Donut tutorial

    Open-source 3D, the industry-standard free tutorial.

    Blender Foundation + Blender Guru (Andrew Price).

    YouTube series + installable software

  3. Fusion 360 Personal Use

    Real engineering CAD; yearly renewal, 10-doc cap, simulation disabled.

    Autodesk; industry-standard MCAD.

    Installable Win/Mac

Honorable mentions

Next step

Innovator project that uses CAD + printing.

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