Designing a Vehicle Powered by One Rubber Band to Transport an Egg

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on designing a vehicle powered solely by a standard rubber band to transport an egg over the greatest horizontal distance without breaking it. Key constraints include the prohibition of rotating parts and the requirement for basic construction materials. Suggestions include using a slingshot mechanism with a wide-stance box to hold the egg, incorporating short runners to minimize friction, and adding vertical fins for stability. Participants emphasize the importance of adhering to the specified design limitations while exploring creative solutions.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to motion and energy transfer.
  • Familiarity with simple mechanical design concepts.
  • Knowledge of materials suitable for constructing lightweight structures.
  • Experience with launching mechanisms, specifically catapults.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research techniques for minimizing friction in vehicle design.
  • Explore the principles of elastic potential energy and its application in propulsion.
  • Investigate the use of aerodynamic features, such as vertical fins, in improving stability.
  • Learn about basic construction methods using everyday materials for project-based designs.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students, educators, and hobbyists interested in physics, engineering design, and creative problem-solving in project-based learning environments.

satish87
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i need some help.

i am supposed to design a vehicle that is powered only by one standard rubber band to transport an egg to the greatest possible horizontal displacement without breaking the egg.


the vehicle can't have any rotating parts.
must be constructed from basic parts (ie not components from a toy)
the vehicle is to be launched using a catapult using one standard rubberband. (which can be cut if needed)
the catapult must be anchored to the ground

all feedback is greatly appreciated.

thx...
 
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Stop posting the same thread over and over. It shouldn't be hard to figure out that it doesn't do you any good: We are less inclined to help annoying people.
 
I cannot think of any 'vehicle' that doesn't have rotating parts. !
 
DePurpereWolf said:
I cannot think of any 'vehicle' that doesn't have rotating parts. !

Saturn 5 ...
 
Now, where would the standard rubberband come into play in a Saturn V?

Apart from it being a very, how to put it, complicated and dangerous way of transporting eggs.
 
How about a slingshot with a couch cushion at the landing spot?
 
I'd look into using 3 or 4 short runners like skates to minimize friction, built onto a wide-stance box to hold the egg. Something like paper clips glued on edge-wise might do it. Then just put a nock like the back of an arrow on the rear section for the elastic to push against. Maybe a couple of vertical fins would help keep it going straight.
 

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