Revolutions with Shape Tiles

Build a 3D surface of revolution entirely with a 2D shape!

Illustrate how a two-dimensional shape may be rotated to create a three-dimensional solid of revolution. Designed as a hands-on illustration of a mathematical concept, students can build a solid of revolution one tile at a time to see how a simple shape generates an interesting surface. The tiles all have an edge of the same size for comparison, and they fit in the same base tray. Easy to take apart and store for repeat use.

★ Easy single-color printing! Perfect for a classroom! ★

Eight Shapes Included!

• Rectangle: Use tall or short to compare the different cylinders one rectangle can make.
• Triangle: Orient the hypotenuse of each tile outward to create a cone, or orient each hypotenuse outward to illustrate a cylinder with a cone shape subtracted on the inside.
• Triangle (Tall): Shows rotation when axis is parallel to the hypotenuse.
• Quarter Circle: Makes a hemisphere.
• Half Circle: My kids call it the “Bundt Cake.”
• Half Circle (Tall): Forms a full sphere. Also useful for discussing spherical coordinates.
• Wiggle: Some curves to create a vase-like shape.
• Parabola and Line: Designed with typical Calculus problems in mind.

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Mathematical Models

• Find more models for mathematics in my Math Surfaces, Solids, Etc. Collection.
• Also see my post: Rotating Shapes for Volume.

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Bonus!! Grouped model files in sets of 12 or 24 are also included for each tile shape. This makes it easy to set up printing tiles that will complete a full rotation. See photo slide show of prints on build plates or look at the STL previews for the layouts.

Also, a "Base Test Model" is included for a quick print to see if the tiles fit well. If the fit is too tight or too loose, you could try scaling the base model up or down a little to help. Scaling the tiles probably won't help unless you adjust the layer heights.

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Note: You do not need all 24 tiles to complete a rotation. Even 12 (or 8) tiles will look good and illustrate the concept. This makes it easier to have class sets or sets for groups within a class.

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