The ever present problem of the egg-drop

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers around creating a protective apparatus for a raw egg using only toothpicks and glue, adhering to specific rules regarding weight and structural integrity. Participants suggest strategies such as avoiding sharp corners, designing for breakage without damaging the egg, and constructing a wider base for stability. The goal is to ensure the egg survives a fall while maintaining a total mass of no more than 40 grams. These insights are crucial for physics students facing similar challenges in engineering design projects.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to impact and force distribution.
  • Familiarity with materials and their properties, specifically toothpicks and various types of glue.
  • Knowledge of structural design concepts, particularly stability and weight distribution.
  • Experience with hands-on construction techniques for building models.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research effective designs for egg drop challenges, focusing on structural integrity.
  • Explore the properties of different adhesives, such as Elmer's white glue and hot glue, for optimal bonding.
  • Learn about the physics of impact absorption and how to apply these principles in design.
  • Investigate the use of geometric shapes, like pyramids, in creating stable structures.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, educators in engineering design, and hobbyists interested in practical applications of physics in real-world challenges.

photojenny14
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So, as I'm sure you all have guessed, I am that helpless physics student completely incapable of figuring out how to make an apparatus to protect a raw egg. I would SO GREATLY appreciate any and all suggestions that anyone has to offer. Thank you so much :)

The rules:
1. The container must be built only with toothpicks and glue. "Glue" means a bonding agent such as Elmer's white glue, Super Glue, or hot glue. It does not mean tape.
2. All glue must be dry when submitted for qualification.
3. The total mass of the egg package should be a maximum of 40 grams, excluding the weight of the egg.
4. The structure should not rotate during fall. (It can though, so if you have some great idea and this is the only preventing factor, no worries)
* If you have any ideas of how to meet all the above AND make it fall fast, that would be greatly appreciated.

THANK YOU SO MUCH!
 
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my suggestions:
1) make sure u don't have sharp corners ...
2) if u going to use it only for one time , try to make it sure that it breaks without damaging the egg (I think it would be easier to make such structure)
3) make the base wider (like pyramid)
 

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