In this lesson, students will learn about the basics of:
Introduction: The lesson beings with an introduction and discussion: “What powers our homes today, and what are the alternatives to non-renewable energy sources?”. The instructor explains solar energy as a clean, renewable resource and its role in reducing carbon emissions. They then demonstrate the 3D Printable Solar House and explain how it represents a real-world application of solar energy. Highlight the solar panels in the kit and how they provide energy for the fans.
Solar Power, Renewable Energy, & Electricity: The lesson then moves to a hands-on demonstration of the solar house. The role of each component is discussed as the students assemble their solar house. Students are instructed to test the house’s motors and solar panels in different lighting conditions (e.g., direct sunlight, shade, and artificial light). Students document the results in a table: “Light Source,” “Fan Speed,” and “Observations”. We then discusses the findings from the experiment: Which light source made the motors spin the fastest? Why? What challenges did you observe when using solar energy? Reinforce the idea that solar power depends on light availability, making it important to consider storage technologies like batteries.
Heat Transfer: Once the house is fully assembled, we explain key concepts of Heat Transfer: Conduction, Convection, and Radiation. Experiments are conducted to explore each concept. Temperature measurements are taken as the house is actively cooled by the attached Air Conditioning unit. Students compare the temperature measurements over time and discuss observations. They are then asked how they would improve the design of the system.
Additive Manufacturing: Finally, the lesson wraps up with the presenter tying the concepts learned in the lesson to the real-world, including a discussion of the larger applications of Additive Manufacturing in next generation construction.
| Virtual Training | STEMInventor Single Site Access | Accessories |
| $200 Who: Paid by library, for the benefit of their patrons that attend Session Length: 2 Hours Format: Virtual Meeting | $239.40/yr Once purchased, libraries can 3D print unlimited* parts & STEM kits thereafter. NOTE: If you have already purchased a STEMInventor license for your library, no additional license purchase is needed. One site license provides access to all 3D printable STEM kits. | $24.95: Solar House & AC Parts Box – This parts box contains all of the parts needed to assemble one (1) solar house. -This parts box contains all of the non-3D-printable parts needed to assemble the Solar House: motors, wires, and more. – Libraries should purchase one Parts Box for each patron they expect to attend. NOTE: The parts contained in each Parts Box are reusable. If you already have the needed parts, there is no need to repurchase. |