Fabrication and Design Fundamentals
Anticipated Time to Credential: 60 hours | Cost Estimate: $875
(**Additional costs associated with this course are the responsibility of the student or school district. Costs are related to materials needed to complete weekly and the capstone projects. Weekly projects cost ~$50/weekly project and ~$200 for capstone project.)
This entry-level credential equips learners with the fundamental tools and mindset necessary for digital fabrication. Students acquire foundational skills in 2D/3D design, 3D printing, and scanning, while simultaneously developing project management and documentation practices essential for industry readiness.
Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Fabrication Fundamentals Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation Fab Lab. This credential is endorsed by esteemed industry partners, including The Honda Corporation, Honeywell, SenseIC, and The Fab Foundation.
If you are a teacher who has already completed this credential and have access to the necessary equipment you are eligible to have students participate in this credential course. Please contact the PAST Foundation Fab Lab at fablab@pastfoundation.org.
Course Overview
This entry-level credential equips learners with the fundamental tools and mindset necessary for digital fabrication. Students acquire foundational skills in 2D/3D design, 3D printing, and scanning, while simultaneously developing project management and documentation practices essential for industry readiness.
Upon successful completion and passing of this course, you will be eligible for the Fabrication Fundamentals Credential offered by The PAST Foundation’s Innovation Fab Lab. This credential is endorsed by esteemed industry partners, including The Honda Corporation, Honeywell, SenseIC, and The Fab Foundation.
If you are a teacher who has already completed this credential and have access to the necessary equipment you are eligible to have students participate in this credential course. Please contact the PAST Foundation Fab Lab at fablab@pastfoundation.org.
What You'll Explore
Performance Indicators
Create and Communicate an Initial Capstone Project Proposal:
Develop a comprehensive project proposal that effectively communicates the project objectives, scope, and potential outcomes.
Navigate and Apply Version Control Tools:
Familiarize yourself with version control software and utilize it effectively for collaborative project management and code revision.
Select and Utilize 2D and 3D Design Software:
Master the use of 2D and 3D design software to create visually appealing and functional designs.
Produce Functional Objects through 3D Printing and Scanning:
Implement 3D printing and scanning techniques to fabricate functional objects from digital models.
Key Competencies
Project Planning & Digital Documentation
2D & 3D CAD Modeling
Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing)
Digital Object Scanning
Introduction to Molding & Casting
Introduction to Web Development & Version Control
Skills You'll Learn
2D and 3D CAD modeling
2D - Design with vector and raster tools. Students use vector-based programs like Inkscape and Affinity Designer, as well as raster-based tools like GIMP, to create planar designs. These designs often include drawing geometric shapes, text, and preparing files for laser cutting or vinyl cutting.
2D Design: Create shapes with holes, design patterns for laser cutting, and make outlines for mechanical parts. For example, document the process of constructing a box with holes utilizing a 2D CAD program, subsequently manipulating surfaces to facilitate further 3D endeavors.
2D - Use tools like Affinity Designer, Cut2D Pro, BoxySVG and GIMP to design and modify images for fabrication, such as logos, signs, or circuit board graphics
3D - Object and Mold Design: Model both objects and their corresponding molds. For example, use Rhino to model a chess piece or other game piece (positive), then design a negative mold around it, considering manufacturing constraints like end mill diameter and demolding angles.
3D -Mechanical Part Modeling: Design mechanical assemblies in programs like Fusion360, Onshape, and Solidworks. This process includes modeling intricate components, including link beams and wheel swing arms, assigning appropriate materials, and rendering colored models for visualization and animation purposes.
3D Replication of Project Components: In the context of capstone projects, students engage in the replication and refinement of project components employing diverse 3D CAD tools. This process entails a comparative analysis of workflows and functionalities across various software platforms.
Additive Manufacturing
Students will design and 3D print objects not possible with subtractive manufacturing
Students will create functional prototypes
Students will evaluate 3D printer design rules and constraints
Print angle tests and overhang and bridging tests
Design Concepts
Students will apply design thinking, CAD, digital fabrication workflows, integration of electronics mechanics, full system integration, and documentation and communication.
3D Printing processes and production
Students will utilize 3D modeling, slicing, and print preparation techniques to design and manufacture functional components.
3D scanning and digital object capture
Students will acquire the knowledge and skills to digitize real-world objects and seamlessly incorporate those scans into digital fabrication processes.
Students gain practical knowledge of how 3D scanning can be utilized for reverse engineering purposes.
Digital Documentation
Students will develop and maintain a personal website and portfolio showcasing their skills and accomplishments.
Project management fundamentals
Students will meticulously document the defining scope of the capstone project, a detailed breakdown of tasks and deliverables, resource allocation, the establishment of deadlines, and ongoing progress monitoring. Additionally, they will implement iterative and spiral development methodologies, effectively manage parallel tasks, and ensure comprehensive documentation of the entire project lifecycle.
Industry Jobs You Can Obtain With This Credential
Alignment with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model
The competencies and skills found in the Fabrication and Design Fundamentals course closely align with the Ohio Manufacturing Competency Model, both in technical expertise and essential workplace capabilities expected by Ohio manufacturers. Below is a direct comparison between the course objectives/skills and major strands from Ohio's official model.
Alignment to Advanced CTE and Credentials Matter
This curriculum aligns closely with Advanced CTE (Career & Technical Education) principles and expectations—particularly within clusters such as Advanced Manufacturing and Digital Technology—by integrating rigorous technical skills, project management, digital communication, and hands-on technology with career readiness and academic standards.