Blossom electronics

Now let’s start with the activity!

If you’re designing the flower yourself, opt for an image with less complexity along the edges. Also, ensure that the 3D model of the flower includes a hole in the middle to enhance the definition during the vacuuming process.

Participants can utilize open-source software to create their own flower or personalize existing designs. This step is tailored to engage an older target age, encouraging creative expression and individuality.

For the softwares you can use the following.

Download the file here (link)

For kids and beginners:

– Tinkercad

Open source / Educational license:

– Blender – free, open-source 3D model creation software

– Fusion 360

Others:

Rhino, Meshmixer, Moment of Inspiration (MoI), 3ds Max – used in all types of 3D model creation, including video game design, architecture, and 3D printing, Siemens NX – for designing and creating advanced 3D models, Solidworks – for designing and creating professional parts for industrial use, Catia – Advanced design software used for creating surfaces and engineering systems

For the slicing of the shared file mentioned earlier, it is recommended to use PLA filament, set at 10% infill, with no support, and opt for a fast print. (This configuration was successfully tested on an Ultimaker S5 using Cura slicing.)

After setting the parameters SLICE > SAVE TO REMOVABLE > EJECT

Or you can download the file ready to be printed here

Once your file is ready you can upload it to the machine and launch the print. While the file is printing (this requires 54 minutes), you can present 3D printing using this presentation.

3D printing presentation

To launch the print check that the required filament is loaded (1), insert the USB (2), select the file (3), and start the print (4).

Follow the steps:

1. Cut pieces of gomma EVA using plastic sheets as a guide to ensure the right size. Make sure to cut a piece that is approximately 1 cm larger on each side to prevent the material from being sucked in during the vacuum-forming process. (See picture below)
2. Position the gomma EVA within the frame of the vacuum former and lift it. Then, arrange your flowers, ensuring some space for cutting out the base. Additionally, ensure that the designs are not positioned too close to the edges.
3. Once the timer signals readiness, press down on the material and let the vacuum take care of the remaining process.



Follow the steps:

1. Outline the flower shape using a pen for both the front and back.
2. Start by making initial cuts along the edges.
3. Create a rough cutout swiftly.
4. Then, meticulously refine the cut along the traced flower lines, aiming for precision to ensure seamless closure.
5. Finally, create two holes as depicted in the picture—one for the LED and the other for the keychain. Utilize a handheld hole punch for more precise holes in this step..

Various materials can be used to create a keychain; for this activity, we have chosen to use a pink wire and beads that, upon contact with water, become slightly adhesive.

Follow the steps:

1. Attach the LED by carefully applying a bit of glue using the previously created hole for the LED. Ensure awareness of the positive and negative poles before making the connections.
2. Apply a line of conductive tape underneath the battery to establish contact when pressed.
3. Prepare the battery by creating a thick circle around it, then place it on top of the conductive tape. Ensure that the positive side of the battery aligns with the positive pole on the LED or vice versa.
4. To activate the LED, add the last piece of tape, connecting the negative side of the LED with the negative side of the battery, or the positive side of the LED with the positive side of the battery.
5. Last, close the flower with a couple of drops of glues. Don’t close the flower fully so you will be able to change the battery in the future.