When Students Become Additive Manufacturing Scientists
At the beginning of February, SKZ Plastics Center opened its doors to six students participating in the international educational program "First Lego League". They were able to demonstrate not only their creativity, but also their interest in the world of science and technology. The visit enabled the young people to present their ideas and receive valuable support from SKZ experts.
[Translate to Englisch:] SKZ-Konstruktionsexperte Kevin Popp demonstriert den Schülern der Johann-Rudolph-Glauber-Realschule in Karlstadt, wie ein Unterarm gescannt wird. (Foto: Irena Heuzeroth, SKZ)
Year 7 students explore the world of 3D printing at SKZ as part of First Lego League
As part of the First Lego League, six interested 7th grade students from the Johann-Rudolph-Glauber-Realschule Karlstadt embarked on an exciting journey into the world of additive manufacturing. The initiative, which is dedicated to promoting Mint subjects (Mint = Mathematics, Computer Science, Natural Sciences and Technology), took the motivated youngsters to the SKZ to gain a deeper insight into the fascinating technology of 3D printing.
Giving free rein to creativity
The students were given a comprehensive introduction to the basics of materials, design and processes. Hands-on demonstrations and a tour of SKZ's state-of-the-art additive manufacturing technology center gave students the opportunity to ask the experts questions and let their creative juices flow.
Arm splint for fishing
A few days before their visit to the SKZ, the students were able to present their project idea to instructor Irena Heuzeroth and ask her questions about plastics and additive manufacturing. The students' idea: to develop an arm splint for beginners and inexperienced anglers that supports the arm while casting. The twist: The arm splint can be filled with air and deflated, depending on the angler's ability.
Arm scanned in detail
A scan of the forearm is the first step in creating a customized splint. Kevin Popp, research assistant and design expert at SKZ, explained the challenges and solutions of digital manufacturing to the students. Using the Artec Leo hand scanner, two students' arms were scanned in great detail. The data was then prepared for 3D printing using software.
"Understanding new technologies is critical"
The students were excited about the opportunity to see 3D scanning technology in action. The hands-on project not only allowed them to deepen their knowledge of coinage, but also to gain insight into the application areas of additive manufacturing. "The world is evolving rapidly, and understanding new technologies is crucial to keeping up in an increasingly digital society. That's why I think it's extremely important to give young people the opportunity to look behind the scenes," says instructor Irena Heuzeroth.
The First Lego League
The First Lego League is designed to get students excited about STEM subjects and develop their skills in science, technology, engineering, and math. Participants work in teams or class groups over several weeks on a collaborative project like real engineers. They plan, build, and program an autonomous robot, research a topic of their choice, and create a presentation of their findings. Students have the opportunity to gain valuable hands-on experience with complex technologies and improve their problem-solving skills. The visit to the SKZ gave the students hands-on experience in 3D printing - and a unique opportunity to interact with scientists on an equal footing.
Team wins second place in final
On Saturday, February 17, the students presented their project idea to the jury in Wiesbaden: They convinced the experts and secured second place in the final. Irena Heuzeroth is delighted with her students' success: "I am incredibly proud of the students' achievement - an impressive example of teamwork, creativity and persuasiveness.
Learn more about the SKZ Additive Manufacturing Research Department
