STEMInventor - 3D Printed Pump Jack 2025

Print, Power, and Pump with Electric Motion! In this lesson, students will explore the mechanics behind a 3D-printed pump jack, also known as a “nodding donkey.” Powered by a small electric motor, the pump jack demonstrates how electrical energy is converted into various types of mechanical motion. As students assemble and observe the working model, they’ll gain hands-on experience with concepts like rotational motion, levers, and energy transfer. This exciting project not only introduces key engineering principles but also brings to life the real-world applications of pump jacks in industries like oil extraction.