My Design Process

To begin, I defined the problem that we needed to solve for this project. We needed to make something that demonstrates energy conversion. Then, I analyzed precedents and used them to inspire my solutions. Next, I reviewed my solutions and determined which one was the most feasible; in my case, it was the air cannon. Then, I constructed the air cannon. Finally, I analyzed the completed air cannon and compared it to my expectations, as well as considering feedback from the users. The feedback and analysis will be used to further my knowledge about design and help me with future products.

Throughout the design cycle, I followed the standard ISB design process closely. I started with defining and inquiring, then moved onto developing and planning, and after that, creating and improving. I actually went back to developing and planning to make a few changes to my blueprints. I found that the time constraints made it difficult to go back and revise the plans. However, the process did result in a successful product.

 

My Product

As shown in the prior post, my product is an air cannon. The air cannon shoots air by using a sheet of plastic propelled by an elastic band. The air is forced down the barrel and comes out of the other end, which is usually pointed at another person. After a second, the air hits the other person. The product demonstrates a conversion of chemical energy (human body) to kinetic energy (moving the elastic back) to elastic energy (stored in the elastic), then, when the elastic is released, to kinetic energy (the air), sound energy, and some excess heat energy in the form of resistance between moving molecules.

 

My Learning

I learned about several new manufacturing techniques, as stated in the previous post:

“During the session, I learned several new techniques and skills. In order to drill holes in the soft plastic bucket, I had to press the surface against a hard piece of wood. To ensure that the screws did not break the plastic tub, washers were needed between the tub and the screw. To soften and smooth the edges of the grip, I originally planned on using sandpaper, but I was introduced to the electric sander and used that instead; the electrical sander was far faster and provided a smoother finish.”

Also, I gained valuable experience about design.

 

Success?

I believe that my product is successful. While it may be ugly and ineffective at times, it is nonetheless a tool that demonstrates energy conversion, from chemical energy to kinetic energy to elastic energy to kinetic energy. The air cannon is able to shoot air up to three meters and was used extensively on Tuesday. Throughout the testing, none of the mechanisms failed on the air cannon. It was always able to shoot air at targets close by. However, there are some problems with the design. For one, the air cannon is extremely inaccurate. Often, it took multiple shots to hit a target. Also, the grip was described as being too wobbly; that problem was quickly remedied with hot glue. Despite the existence of problems within my final prototype, I would still consider it a success.

 

Impacts

For physics teachers, I do believe this product would help them teach energy conversion. An air cannon is quite fun and would draw the attention of students towards the teacher. For younger teenagers and adults, this air cannon would be a fun toy. The consenting and voluntary testers of this product were able to have fun shooting at each other and feeling bubbles of air hit them.

As for the environment, I predict that the product has a pretty neutral environmental impact. Most of the materials used were basically trash; the plastic tubs and sheets were scavenged from the reuse bins and the wood was from a pile of used wood pieces. The screws, elastics, and tape were new, but they made up an insignificant portion of the final product. However, if this product was to be made at an industrial scale with planned improvements, then it would have more impact. While wood is sustainable, its transportation is not. Also, more new materials will be used. However, despite all these problems, manufacture of this product would not have a noticeable impact on the environment.