EcoPlay Shelter: Modular Design Using Shipping Containers

The idea came from the need for fast-setup, eco-friendly structures that can be reused. I wanted to create something fun and practical that also adds life to empty or emergency zones. That’s why I included container modules and playground features.

Tool Use Case

Align

To perfectly stack containers and windows

Group

To combine walls, doors, and windows

Duplicate

To copy identical elements (trees, windows)

Workplane

To place items like doors or windows on vertical faces

Rotate

To angle containers in a curved layout

Building the Base Structure 🧱

Tinkercad Process:

1. Added 3 20ft container models (approx. 6m x 2.4m x 2.6m) in a semi-circular layout.
2. Used Align tool to match the bottom faces and keep them grounded.
3. Added 2 doors to the base (standard 2m x 1m).

Real-World Materials:

1. Shipping Containers: Steel – strong, reusable, and transportable.
2. Doors: Metal or PVC, suitable for temporary structures.

1. Added 3 more containers on top, rotating some with Rotate tool.
2. Used Align and Workplane to correctly stack and position.
3. Added windows (1.2m x 0.6m) to each container for natural light.

Real-World Materials:

1. Windows: Reused aluminum frames with glass or polycarbonate.
2. Structure: Bolted corners and support beams (steel).

1. Used Shape Generator for the curved blue slide.
2. Added a red ladder using grouped arcs and rectangles.
3. Positioned with Workplane on the container's side wall.

Real-World Materials:

1. Slide: Recycled plastic, safe and colorful for kids.
2. Ladder: Powder-coated steel for durability.

1. Added 4 pine trees using Duplicate to balance both sides.
2. Trees modeled with cones and cylinders.

Real-World Materials:

1. Green Area: Either potted trees or planted conifers for shade and oxygen.
2. Ground: Grass, artificial turf, or compacted soil.

Approx. Overall Dimensions:

1. Width: 16 meters
2. Depth: 8 meters
3. Height: 5.2 meters

Key Connections:

1. Containers bolted at corners using ISO corner castings.
2. Upper containers secured with twist-locks and steel plates.
3. Slide and ladder bolted to container frame.

EcoPlay Shelter is a modular, eco-conscious solution for temporary spaces. It can be used in schools, disaster relief zones, or events. It mixes fun, function, and sustainability.