Modeling Topography and Erosion with 3D Printing

cults3d

"Modeling Topography and Erosion with 3D Printing" is a project that will demonstrate the effect of river erosion on the Grand Canyon. This model will act as a visual aid for studying geography and earth science. The included 3D printable files will allow students to create a scale terrain model of this region and all the accessories needed to simulate a water source. By using rigid plastic PLA to print the Grand Canyon and water soluble PVA to print a River Valley that fits within, water poured through the river will dissolve the PVA and gradually expose the canyon underneath. During the experiment, participants will observe natural formations that will appear and identify geographic terms to understand how and why these structures come to be. This project is possible due to the unique properties of PVA filament. PVA is the same material from which glue sticks are made. Most 3D printing hobbyists use this material as a dissolvable support structure for complex models. My concept proposes using it as a functional end product by leveraging the water solubility of PVA to demonstrate a natural process. Feel free to share any images, videos, tips, tricks, or suggestions from your experiment and experience with the project! Awards and Accolades Pinshape Create to Educate Lesson Plan Contest - 1st Place Winner Pinshape Featured Design - December 1, 2017 Make Magazine Blog Article - December 18, 2017 Cults 3D Selection - December 2017 MatterHackers Minute - Create to Educate Design Challenge Review https://pinshape.com/blog/announcing-create-educate-lesson-plan-contest-winners/ https://pinshape.com/blog/pinshape-featured-designs-december-1st/https://makezine.com/2017/12/18/science-simulation-3d-printing/https://cults3d.com/en/creations/selectedhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S_rikCwHumk Timelapse video here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DhQ9V3SRjRw Follow me on Instagram to see more of my cool stuff! :Dhttps://www.instagram.com/roberthemlich/