Jimmy T Tran

July 9, 2026

Maze Design Project Notes (in progress)

Project Specs

  • Maze size: 7 × 7 squares
  • Design time: ~30 minutes
  • Software: Onshape → Fusion 360
  • Start:
  • Finish:

Maze Requirements


Required

  • At least 2 ways to enter the maze
  • Only 1 way to finish

Design Question

  • Should one pathway be harder than the other?

Design Tips

  • Spend plenty of time on the initial design, but don’t overdo it.
  • Make the maze walls a different color so they’re easier to see.
  • Don’t get stuck obsessing over corners and tiny details.
  • New ideas will come as you continue designing.
  • Time limits make the challenge more interesting.

Classroom Timeline


Class 1

  • Draw the maze

Class 2

  • Create the first digital iteration

CAD Workflow (Fusion 360)


Helpful Shortcuts

  • Ctrl + Z — Undo
  • Mouse controls
  • Fit/View commands
  • ViewCube
  • Margins
  • Move Line tool

Modeling Notes

  • Support layer
  • Stack print
  • Even out corners by using numbers
  • Group objects before engraving

3D Printing Checklist

  • ✅ 15% infill
  • Ensure the correct model is selected
  • Verify support settings if needed

Materials

  • M2 screws
  • Plexiglass

Open Questions

  • Should one entrance lead to a significantly more difficult route?
  • How should the maze balance difficulty while still having only one successful solution?


Suggested Student Workflow

  1. Sketch a 7×7 maze on paper.
  2. Verify:
    • Two entrances
    • One finish
  3. Refine the layout without over-focusing on details.
  4. Model the maze in Onshape/Fusion 360.
  5. Color walls differently for visibility.
  6. Group engraving geometry.
  7. Prepare for printing:
    • 15% infill
    • Supports if necessary
    • Confirm correct model
  8. Print and assemble using plexiglass and M2 screws.

This version separates your brainstorming into a step-by-step workflow that should be much easier to reference while teaching or building the project.