The visualization of the encounters between rolled steel pieces that concur in a connection is sometimes difficult to understand in the learning process of how to build this kind of structures. Previous experiences using structural models and kits have shown improvements on the understanding of the subject because students are able to reproduce in a practical way, using those physical models, the building solutions that they have learned theoretically. The limitations of these structures should be also taken into account. In which, in addition to the pieces preparation, it is need to weld them in order to strengthen the connections. This allows highlighting the priority of some elements among others, the necessity of continuity of some of them according to the local solicitation, the order of the welding and the need for cuts in some pieces for their connection. This work pretends to analyse the advantages of the use of models done by 3D printing in the motivation of the students in the learning experience.There have been many difficulties in the planning, design and elaboration of the pieces to get a complete structural kit. To achieve a versatile model which allows reordering its pieces for reproducing different joints has required solving different problems. Starting with the choice of an accurate scale for the management, visualization and subsequent custody of the models in every case, as well as the selection of the most suitable profiles for the representation of multiple joints.On the other hand, the choice of the material, the thickness and the filling of the pieces, the same with the management of printing times and the difficulties in the balance of the pieces have required a redesign of the prototype in order to minimize material quantities, printing lengths, defective pieces, etc. and to increase the performance in the elaboration of the proposed models. In the present research work, the difficulties encountered during the process of designing and elaborating an educational kit to support the learning of rolled steel connections are highlighted.
This paper presents the continuation of previous experiences of self-learning through the realization of physical models by teams of students in a competitive environment. We added to the process the development of new skills as prior planning, the use of CAD tools and the manufacture of the models incorporating the CAD-CAM by means of a laser cutter.Student teams are introduced in the use of procedures typical of their future professional activity, besides learning about structural behaviour. In order to build a structure, they must develop a project subjected to regulations (economic rules), economic restrictions (the amount of material they can use) and the limitations imposed by the laser cutter (technological restrictions)The proposed challenge is developed during the course and concludes with the load test of the models and the subsequent analysis of the causes of the collapse, in an act in which students from the different participating schools gather together. The activity is completed with a conference given by a first level engineering firm that exposes real cases of construction of this type of structures.
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