Computer-Aided design (CAD)
Support for students

Need help with Computer-Aided Design (CAD) ? Contact Mr Muschamp (mmuschamp@bcdschool.org)

What is Computer-Aided Design (CAD)? 

• CAD is when you use special computer software to create precise drawings or 3D models of things you want to build or 3D print. Instead of sketching on paper, CAD lets you design on a screen where you can measure exactly, test ideas, and easily make changes before actually building the real thing.

When do I use CAD? 

• Use CAD anytime you want to plan, design, or test a 3D print.

• In Middle School, students often design using Tinkercad, a beginner-friendly CAD software with easy to drag and drop shapes.

• In Upper School, students often design using OnShape, a more advanced CAD software used by professional engineers and designers.

• Both of these platforms are free, cloud-based so you can access them anywhere, and allow you to collaborate with others.

How do I use CAD?
A typical 3D printing design process using CAD:

• • Step 1: Student comes up with an idea they want to 3D print and shares their idea with an R+D team member to discuss and finalize the concept, including the proposed material.

  • Step 2: Student creates a CAD model of their idea using either:

    • TinkerCAD (for MS)

    • OnShape (for US)

  • Step 3: Student shares their CAD model with an R+D member to discuss and finalize the design for fabrication

    • Note: We want students to create original designs (you learn more by doing!). While there are many digital files easily available for students to download that others have created, we expect all 3D printed designs to be at least 60% original work.

  • Step 4: Student downloads their digital file as a .stl

    • Fun fact: .stl stands for “stereolithography file” a fancy word for a blueprint for a 3D printer.  

  • Step 5: Student emails their digital file to the 3D printer: 3dprint@bcdschool.org 

  • Step 6: Student joins the R+D member at the 3D print station to review and finalize the file and materials.

    • 3D prints can take a while depending on the size and complexity.

    • Students are expected to be present to review and start a 3D print, but can come back later when the print is complete for pick-up.

    • Finished prints are moved to the project bin.