Inexpensive demonstration set for teaching geometrical optics made by 3D printer

摘要

Good sets for teaching geometric optics are relatively expensive to buy and difficult to make on your own, which often forces teachers to use less than ideal instruments and methods. This is a great shame, since this is a visually appealing topic that can motivate students. For this reason, we have designed a set that is relatively cheap, easy to use and can therefore (in some cases) remedy this situation. Our set is manufactured using 3D printing technology, which limits its users to those that have access to it; however, 3D printing technology is becoming more and more accessible every day (even in schools). On the other hand, 3D printing allows us to let the machines do the majority of the manufacturing work, making the process of building the set almost as simple as 'download and press print'. This article presents this set, what it consists of, how it is done and where can you find all the necessary files and instructions.