About this Event
Making Movement Matter: A Workshop Series on Designing 3D-printable Accessibility Aids
Hosted by Accessible Prosthetics Initiative - UT Dallas
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Saturdays, April 4-25
Central Library
Ages 11-14
Ready to build something that truly matters? In this hands-on 3D design program, students will use TinkerCAD to create a tool that could help someone with a movement disability complete an everyday task. Over four sessions, participants will brainstorm, sketch, prototype and refine their ideas as a team.
Each student will also design a small 3D creation to print and take home! At the end of the program, students will have the opportunity to showcase how their designs promote accessibility and independence.
About API: The Accessible Prosthetics Initiative (API) at UT Dallas is a student-led group focused on expanding access to prosthetics and mobility aids. They design and create affordable devices, connect individuals with helpful resources, and work to reduce barriers to care.
Through hands-on workshops, API introduces students to how STEM and 3D design can tackle real-world challenges — and how thoughtful engineering can support mobility, independence and quality of life.
Session 1: Meaning of Movement (Program Introduction)
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 4
Participants will explore how movement connects to independence, learning about disability, mobility and assistive technology through hands-on activities and group discussion. They’ll be introduced to their real-world design challenge and begin brainstorming solutions together.
Session 2: Engineering Solutions (TinkerCAD Introduction)
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 11
Participants will learn the basics of 3D design using TinkerCAD and explore how engineers create patient-centered, accessible solutions. They’ll begin building their own small 3D design while continuing to develop their group solution.
Session 3: Design & Development (Developing TinkerCAD Skills)
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 18
Participants will continue refining their 3D designs in TinkerCAD and hear from a guest speaker with lived experience in accessibility design or mobility aids. Groups will also begin preparing their project pitches and finalizing their solutions.
Session 4: Making Movement Matter (Design Proposal & Pitch)
10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. Saturday, April 25:
Participants will finalize and present their team designs, sharing how their solution promotes accessibility, independence and functionality. Projects will be evaluated, and all participants will celebrate their hard work with a certificate of completion and their custom 3D print!
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
Garland Central Library, 625 Austin Street, Garland, United States
USD 0.00
