How to Design a Science Cone/Ramp Experiment using 3D CAD Software
Designing a science cone and ramp experiment is a great way to combine 3D modeling with hands-on learning. In this article, we’ll show you how to create a simple cone-and-ramp setup using SelfCAD, an intuitive 3D modeling software
that makes it easy to design educational models and experiment with different shapes and structures. You’ll learn how to create the ramp, shape the cone, and prepare the model for practical experiments that demonstrate concepts such as motion, speed, and gravity. Whether you’re a student, teacher, or 3D modeling enthusiast, this project offers a fun way to explore science while developing your SelfCAD design skills.
Check out its interactive tutorial at; https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/3kvt2j55236904q5l5z1yr192s6p601i2l60
Once you launch the editor;
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 15, height to 25, depth to 200, position x to 35, rotation y to 15.
Tick the checkmark finalize cube
From the utilities category on the toolbar choose mirror; Set create copy to true, direction to left, offset to 1.87.
Tick the checkmark to finalize mirror
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 17, Bottom radius to 17, height to 25, horizontal segments to 50, arc to 150, position z to -102, rotation y to 105
Click on mesh 4(1), mesh 4 to select
Click Boolean on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.
Tick the checkmark to finalize union
Click to activate edge selection; Click on highlighted region to select it
Click move on the toolbar; Set y to 50 using highlighted gizmo
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cylinder; Set top radius to 5, Bottom radius to 5, height to 200, horizontal segments to 50, position y to 44, position z to 80, rotation z to 90
Click on union 1 to select it
Click Boolean on the toolbar; from the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 12 to subtract.
Tick the checkmark to finalize difference
From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cone; Set radius to 35, height to 55, horizontal segments to 50, position x to -30, position y to 16, position z to 81, rotation z to 90.
Tick the checkmark to finalize cone
From the utilities category on the toolbar choose mirror; Set create copy to true, direction to right
Tick the checkmark to finalize mirror
Click on mesh 16(1) to select
Click Boolean on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose union.
Tick the checkmark to finalize union
Click move on the toolbar; Set x to 0.
Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel
As you continue honing your design skills, remember that SelfCAD offers a wealth of resources to support your learning journey. To deepen your understanding and explore more advanced features, consider checking out the interactive tutorials (https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials) available on the SelfCAD website. The tutorials page provides a treasure trove of guides, tips, and tricks that cater to designers of all levels.
More structured learning experience can also be accessed at the SelfCAD Academy (https://www.selfcad.com/academy/curriculum/), https://www.youtube.com/@3dmodeling101, and 3D Modeling 101 series (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL74nFNT8yS9DcE1UlUUdiR1wFGv9DDfTB). This comprehensive resource offers in-depth courses taught by industry experts, allowing you to master the intricacies of SelfCAD at your own pace
