How can we improve the performance of our mousetrap racecar?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on improving the performance of a mousetrap racecar that currently only travels 1.75 meters instead of the required 3 meters. Key issues identified include friction from a poorly smoothed axle hole and the dowel mechanism that fails to maintain tension on the string during the mousetrap's operation. The axle is 5mm wide and is secured to the chassis using cardboard, which may also contribute to instability. Addressing these mechanical inefficiencies is essential for achieving the desired distance.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to motion and friction.
  • Familiarity with mechanical design concepts for small vehicles.
  • Knowledge of materials and their properties, particularly regarding friction and structural integrity.
  • Experience with simple machines, specifically the mechanics of levers and pulleys.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods to reduce friction in mechanical systems, such as using smoother axle materials or lubricants.
  • Explore design modifications for the dowel mechanism to ensure consistent tension on the string during operation.
  • Investigate alternative materials for the chassis that provide better support than cardboard.
  • Learn about the principles of energy transfer in mousetrap cars to optimize performance.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students working on physics projects, educators teaching mechanical principles, and hobbyists interested in building and optimizing small-scale vehicles.

Cheesycheese213
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Homework Statement


For school, we have to build a mousetrap car, and get it to go 3m. Our car doesn't roll very well, and we aren't quite sure of the problem. We have an axle that is 5mm wide, and the thing that holds it to the chassis is made of cardboard. Also, the mousetrap is pretty far back on the car, and the string is attached to one end of the axle.
So, it isn't able to get to 3m, only about 1.75.

Homework Equations


We haven't been able to use any yet, because the car doesn't work

The Attempt at a Solution


We thought it might have been friction, because the hole for the axle isn't very smooth, but there was also a problem with the dowel. While the mousetrap snaps shut, the string is being pulled by the dowel attached to the mousetrap. But, when the dowel is at the highest point when it is closing, it stops pulling the string, and it becomes loose. Or, it doesn't pull at all.
 
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