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Technology inquiryInquiry 15

Sensor fabrication

3D modelling — fit, tolerance, iteration

How do we fabricate a part that fits the evidence, survives field use, and tolerates real-world variance?

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Technology inquiry

Sensor fabrication

3D modelling — fit, tolerance, iteration

Technological Practice · Technological modelling · Materials

Wero

How do we fabricate a part that fits the evidence, survives field use, and tolerates real-world variance?

First step

Measure the mounting need to ±1 mm; print v1; test fit under load; document one tolerance change for v2.

What you will show

Fit-test report with photos, dimensional table, and reason for the v2 adjustment.

Local place context

Which sensor type matches your evidence question — and what calibration will you use?

Technological Practice · Technological modelling · Materials

First step

Measure the mounting need to ±1 mm; print v1; test fit under load; document one tolerance change for v2.

Expected outcome

Fit-test report with photos, dimensional table, and reason for the v2 adjustment.

You will design and print a sensor mount that solves a real problem from your earlier investigation. Whether your printed mount actually improves sensor reliability — and what design choices made the biggest difference. Before-and-after reliability measurements, design notes, and photos.

Five ways you could investigate

Pick one to start — or write your own question. The AI mentor supports you gently inside your investigation.

  1. Idea 1

    Tolerance vs fit

    How does ±0.2 mm tolerance change fit and function?

    Start with this question →
  2. Idea 2

    Print orientation strength

    Which orientation survives the force your evidence predicts?

    Start with this question →
  3. Idea 3

    Iteration after failure

    What failed in v1 — and what single change fixes it?

    Start with this question →
  4. Idea 4

    Material flex

    Does flexible filament reduce breakage at the joint?

    Start with this question →
  5. Idea 5

    User test feedback

    What did a classmate report when using your mount?

    Start with this question →

Five things you could build

Fabrication ideas linked to makerspace tools — 3D print, laser cut, Arduino, data products, and more.

  1. Build 1

    Sensor holder v2

    Print the tolerance change your fit tests justified.

    Open in outcome selector →
  2. Build 2

    Jig for assembly

    Laser-cut a jig that speeds repeatable assembly.

    Open in outcome selector →
  3. Build 3

    Fit test report

    Document dimensions, tolerances, and pass/fail.

    Open in outcome selector →
  4. Build 4

    Strain relief clip

    Small clip that protects cable entry points.

    Open in outcome selector →
  5. Build 5

    Iteration photo story

    Show v1→v3 with measurement callouts.

    Open in outcome selector →

AI mentor (inside your investigation)

No separate mentor page — support appears in your investigation workspace. It starts gentle: short prompts about your research context, data, and analysis. You or your teacher can turn assistance off for unassisted work, or request more help when you need it. It also guides fabrication choices tied to your evidence.

What you will investigate
You will design and print a sensor mount that solves a real problem from your earlier investigation.
What you will collect
Date and time, Mount version
What you might make or share
A mount file, a fit-test write-up