Stabalizing an egg drop project

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on stabilizing an egg drop project designed to protect an egg during a fall while adhering to weight and accuracy constraints. The project utilizes foam molds from a computer screen to absorb impact, with the current weight at 201.5 grams, under the 300-gram limit. The challenge lies in achieving a straight drop to meet the 30 cm by 30 cm target area. Proposed solutions include adding weight to the bottom or using a streamer for stabilization.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as momentum and force equations.
  • Familiarity with the principles of impact absorption and friction.
  • Knowledge of materials suitable for lightweight construction, such as foam and cardboard.
  • Experience with design and prototyping for engineering projects.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research methods for enhancing stability in free-fall projects, such as adding weight distribution techniques.
  • Explore the effectiveness of aerodynamic devices like streamers or parachutes in stabilizing falling objects.
  • Investigate alternative materials that can reduce weight while maintaining structural integrity.
  • Study the application of physics equations (F=ma, P=mv, J=Ft) in practical engineering scenarios.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for students working on engineering projects, educators teaching physics concepts, and hobbyists interested in design and stability in falling object experiments.

Tojo Joe
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Homework Statement


I have designed an egg drop project that performs just as I had hoped and portected the egg perfectly. I would need to make the object as stable as possible while it is falling.
My container is the foam molds that held the screen for my computer. The structure of the foam was designed to squish out. This allows the egg, which i have put in a larger cardboard egg filled with foam, to slide down slightly. The foams absorbs most of the impact and the friction on the cardboard egg the rest. My issue is i am graded on accuracy and weight. i cannot go over 300 grams i am currently at 201.5 grams. I must also hit a 30 cm by 30 cm for full points. Due to the shape of the foam it is hard to achieve a straight drop. I need a way to stabalize the egg without inhibiting it from free falling.

Homework Equations


Momentum and force equations an impulse
F=ma
P=mv
J=Ft


The Attempt at a Solution


I was considering weighing the bottom end or using a streamer ontop, though i do not know how effective the streamer would be.
 
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Here is a picture of my project in its correct orientation.
 

Attachments

  • Project.jpg
    Project.jpg
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