Building a Toothpick Model to Hold a 16 lb Bowling Ball - Tutorials and Tips

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around constructing a toothpick model capable of supporting a 16-pound bowling ball. Participants explore various design approaches, clarify project requirements, and seek resources or tutorials for guidance.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses uncertainty about where to begin and seeks tutorials for building a toothpick model.
  • Another participant requests clarification on whether the bowling ball needs to be suspended or simply lifted off a surface, and inquires about the use of toothpick bundles and glue.
  • A third participant makes a seemingly unrelated comment about toothpick models, referencing "Victoria's Secret."
  • One participant suggests using intersecting pyramids as a design principle, noting their stability.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants have not reached consensus on the project requirements or the best approach to constructing the model. Multiple viewpoints and questions remain unresolved.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations regarding the project's specifications, such as the conditions under which the bowling ball must be supported and the materials allowed for construction.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in engineering design, model building, or physics-related projects may find this discussion relevant.

kateg4
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I need to build a toothpick model that can hold a 16 pound bowling ball.
I have no idea where to begin, does anyone know of somewhere I can find a tutorial or something?
 
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Maybe you could clarify this a bit.

Does the bowling ball have to be suspended from the ceiling or just lifted off the table?

If it is just to hold it off the table, are you allowed to stack the toothpicks into bundles and lay them horizontally like a mat?

Are you allowed to glue the toothpicks together?
 
If you want toothpick models check out Victoria's Secret.
 
base it on intersecting pyramids, which are very stable
 

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