Innovative Solutions: Aaron Lee's 3D Printing Project
When the laminator at Somersfield broke down, it seemed like a major setback for Somersfield staff. However, for Aaron Lee ‘28, an M4 student working towards his Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award, it presented an opportunity to put his skills to the test.
The small plastic pieces that held the lamination paper in place had become unusable, leaving the machine out of action. Inspired by the challenge, Aaron turned to his 3D printer at home. With the support of his mother, Mrs. Emma Moran-Lee, PHE teacher and Director of Activities at the school, he borrowed a caliper from Mr. Russell Peters, Physics Teacher, and got started immediately.
Aaron spent hours measuring and coding to design a 3D model of the missing component. After meticulous preparation, the printing process took over ten hours to complete. This hands-on project, while not part of his Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, aligned perfectly with his goals of learning CAD and applying it in real-world situations.
Aaron's initiative reflects the IB Learner Profile's attribute of being a "Thinker." He utilised critical and creative thinking skills to analyse the problem and took responsible action by creating a solution.
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award encourages young people to engage in various activities to develop skills, fitness, and community service. By repairing the laminating machine, Aaron not only showcased his technical know-how but also demonstrated resilience and keen decision-making. His effort has made a significant difference, inspiring others to think creatively when faced with challenges.
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