Mousetrap car design and materials

AI Thread Summary
In the discussion about mousetrap car design, a user seeks advice on materials and designs, specifically for a three-wheel configuration. They express frustration with existing resources and ask for new suggestions. Another participant shares their lack of experience but suggests using a flywheel to mitigate wheel spin and improve energy transfer from the mousetrap. The conversation also touches on the goals of the project, questioning whether the focus should be on maximizing distance or top speed. Overall, the thread highlights the need for innovative ideas and practical solutions in mousetrap car construction.
GreenRoxz
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Hello,

I am building a mousetrap car for my physics class. I have looked at other threads for the best materials and designs but none of them have helped me much.
I was wondering if anyone could give me something new to work with.

I would like to have a three wheel design but my main problem is that I do not know what are the best materials. If anyone could name a few specific items I would be forever grateful.

Stay real, Stay True
 
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I''ll give you the same advice that I give to everyone else who pops in with this question. Use the threat of the mousetrap to force the mice into slave labour and make them pull your car.
 
GreenRoxz said:
I am building a mousetrap car for my physics class. I have looked at other threads for the best materials and designs but none of them have helped me much.
I was wondering if anyone could give me something new to work with.

Hi GreenRoxz, http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/5725/red5e5etimes5e5e45e5e25.gif

I have nil experience with building mousetrap cars, but the ones I´ve constructed in my mind all suffer from a common problem: wheel spin.

So to minimize this, I provide the car with a flywheel, arranging for the flywheel to absorb the energy from the spring and release it at a slower measured rate to the rear wheels. With this improvement, the imaginary car travels far. :-p A clockwork mechanism built around the spring might be even more impressive. :smile: Is the ultimate goal to maximize distance of travel, or to maximize top speed?
 
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