MAKER: A New Course on the Changing World of 3D Printing and Proto-typing for Non-Engineers

摘要

In recent years there has been a big push to get students into the STEM fields. However, what seems to be lacking in this academic push is the hands on side of it. Engineering simply just isn't about equations, but actually developing and building physical prototypes towards a final goal of developing and/or improving a product. Something you can touch and in most cases see work. This newly developed course is designed for non-engineering majors as well as engineering students as an introduction and survey of rapid-prototyping, especially centered on the advent, impact, and utility of 3D printers and supporting digital technology: computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) software. The course covers both the concepts and practice of 3D printing and prototyping, emphasizing hands-on work developing computer-based design models ("drawings") and fabricating prototypes ("parts") using current tools for desktop manufacturing including 3D printers, laser cutters, desktop engravers, and micro-molding and printing. With this knowledge and skill set, students are able to design, develop and demonstrate a working product suitable for commercialization. Expected student learning outcomes assessment in this course is performed using mid-term and final exams and written reports and oral presentations as well as an evaluation of each student's contribution to a term project.