Research
Studied the play pattern and identified the need for controlled launch alignment and repeatability.
Product design · Case study
3D-Printed
Curling Game.
DisciplineMechanical Design
MethodsCAD · 3D Printing
ContextEngineering Education
Completed prototype
Physical game system · Launcher · Stones · Playing surface
01 / Background
Translating digital play
into a physical system.
Inspired by a video game, Yiming set out to design a fully functional tabletop curling game that could be shared with the school community. The project required more than printing an object: the launcher, playing surface and curling stones needed to work together reliably and produce repeatable shots.
The resulting game combined mechanical design with a social objective—using a tangible product to encourage teamwork, experimentation and friendly competition.
Development process
From idea to classroom use.
CAD
Modelled the board, launcher cover, guide arms and central sliding channel to precise dimensions.
Prototype
Manufactured components through additive fabrication and assembled the complete game system.
Test
Observed student use, shot consistency, component stability and the practical flow of the activity.
Improve
Prioritized structural strength, reliable release, printable geometry and rounded edges for safer handling.
Complete system and dual-launcher geometry
Technical details
Part Design & Optimization
- Guide arms
- Hold and align the curling stone before launch.
- Central channel
- Directs the linear sliding mechanism.
- Circular frame
- Increases structural strength while limiting material.
- Rounded geometry
- Improves printability and user safety.
- Design objective
- Stable, accurate and repeatable marker release.
Evidence
Prototype in use.
15-second project record
Students testing the game
A web-optimized version of the original 4K classroom clip.
02 / Outcome
A product that became
part of the class.
The tabletop curling game became one of the most anticipated activities in the engineering class. Students engaged with the system through play, teamwork and informal testing—turning design and prototyping into a shared experience rather than a static demonstration.