In this project, we were tasked to build a device that demonstrates energy change.

Key:

5 stars – most

1 star – least

Design ideas

Helicopter

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6ep8z1Whmk

It is a complex design that requires extreme accuracy and must be precise for it to work, although it would be a fun project that provides tons of learning opportunities.

  • 3 stars for danger – the helicopter can lose control, crash onto the ground, and potentially cause injuries.
  • 5 stars for difficulty –  it requires much knowledge on how helicopter work that I don’t have.

Things to consider:

  • The helicopter must be light/small enough to be lifted.
  • The motor must be strong enough to lift the helicopter
  • How will the helicopter lift/land?
  • How will the helicopter be controlled?

Car

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jm8xDMhuHww&ab_channel=MiniMechanics

It is an easy project that will take little effort to complete. I want to make something more challenging with more learning opportunities.

  • 1 star for danger – the car will roll on the ground and is not strong enough to cause injuries. The only way someone gets hurt is by stepping on it.
  • 2 stars for difficulty – Easy design that does not require much prior knowledge.

Things to consider:

  • The motor must be strong enough to power the car.
  • The car must be light enough to move.
  • How will the car start?
  • What controls will be used?

Rocket

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-rsH4FObZQ&ab_channel=EthanAllred

A dangerous project that requires too much precision and time.

  • 4 stars for difficulty – It includes the use of chemicals, which I do not have prior knowledge of.
  • 5 stars for danger – it involves the use of chemicals and fire.

Things to consider:

  • The rocket must be light enough to lift off.
  • The rocket must be in ideal shape to launch straight up.
  • How will the rocker be powered?
  • How do I ensure the rocket goes straight up?
  • What energy transfer will be demonstrated?

Boat

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EUctNMVX2hU&ab_channel=KendinYap

A perfect difficulty for a project due in 5 classes. All I need to consider for safety is to waterproof everything.

  • 2 for danger – everything must be tightly waterproofed.
  • 3 for difficulty – I must consider how to waterproof everything, especially the motors.

Things to consider:

  • The boat must be light enough to float.
  • The boat must be wide/long enough to sit on the water and not tip over.
  • All the electric-related components must be waterproofed.
  • How will the boat change directions?
  • How will I ensure the boat goes straight?