~Depths of the Ocean Merge Cube~

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  A screenshot from a video we took of our virtual world on the merge cube

Inspiration

Due to the vastness of the ocean and how much of it is unknown, we wanted to educate kids on the basic layers of the ocean and its contents. The mini virtual reality that we built around the merge cube is very simplistic in teaching about the different layers, as well as a hint of commentary on the pollution present in the ocean.

What it does

The target audience of our merge cube is young children, especially in the classroom environment. The cube provides an interactive and fun way to learn that will keep the kids engaged in the topic of discussion.

How we built it

By first using 3D paint, we created the ocean layer backgrounds for each side of the cube, as well as for the stationary text that states the depth of each layer. The rest of the code and objects used were created in the CoSpaces Edu work space, where we attached items to the cube and assigned information and actions for each object.

Challenges we ran into

Initially, we ran into many challenges with importing the objects from 3D paint, eventually learning that the file format from paint isn't compatible with that of CoSpaces'. To work around it while also somehow incorporating the 3D paint part of the challenge, we decided to create the backgrounds in paint. We then used the objects available to us in the presets on CoSpaces to get our idea across, adding code to it to make it more personalized.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

Coming into the challenge, each member of the team didn't have any experience in 3D paint or with the merge cube. By attending the merge and 3D paint session, we were able to learn the basics and then figured out the rest on our own through trial and error. Although the overall programming and design of the cube is very simplistic, it gets our idea across and presents one way that the merge cube can be used in the classroom environment.

What we learned

We learned how to work together as a team, with each member contributing what skill set they excelled at. We also learned more about the functions of 3D paint and how basic coding works, specifically the various ways we could utilize the merge cube.

What's next for Depths of the Ocean Merge Cube

Once we're more experienced and accustomed to how CoSpaces and the merge cube works, hopefully we can expand from our simplistic design and employ more complex coding and graphics. There's also a way to make 3D models that can be imported into CoSpaces without complications, so with more time, all the objects could be original creations unique in design.

Built With

• 3dpaint
• cospacesedu
• merge