Project Overview
In this project, students will design a tool or machine capable of moving snow or sand efficiently in a single motion. The goal is to teach students about mechanical design principles, material properties, and the engineering design process. The project will challenge students to think creatively and apply STEM concepts to solve real-world problems.
Objectives
- Understand the basic principles of mechanical advantage and material flow.
- Apply CAD tools to create a functional design.
- Evaluate the efficiency of their design through a simple simulation or prototype testing.
- Develop problem-solving and teamwork skills.
Challenge: Design a snow or sand mover that can:
- Move the maximum amount of material in one motion.
- Be ergonomic and user-friendly.
- Utilize simple mechanics to minimize effort.
- (Optional) Be made of cost-effective and eco-friendly materials.
Project Guidelines
1. **Research and Brainstorming**
- Discuss the challenges of moving snow or sand (e.g., weight, volume, material friction).
- Research existing tools (e.g., shovels, plows, scoops) and machines.
- Brainstorm features that could improve efficiency and ease of use.
2. **Initial Sketches**
- Create hand-drawn sketches of your ideas.
- Annotate sketches with descriptions of key features (e.g., blade shape, handles, mechanical components).
- Select the most promising concept.
3. **CAD Modeling**
- Use a CAD software program (e.g., SolidWorks, TinkerCAD, or Fusion 360) to design your tool or machine.
- Include:
- Dimensions of the snow/sand mover.
- Materials used for different parts
- Movable parts (if any) and their mechanisms.
4. **Simulation (Optional)**
- Run a simple simulation to analyze the performance of your design.
- Stress analysis to ensure durability.
- Flow simulation to visualize material movement.
5. **Prototype and Testing (Optional)**
- Create a physical prototype using cardboard, 3D printing, or other materials.
- Test your prototype by moving sand or a lightweight substitute (e.g., flour or rice).
- Record observations about efficiency, stability, and ease of use.
6. **Evaluation and Iteration**
- Evaluate the design based on these criteria:
- Efficiency: How much material is moved in one action?
- Ergonomics: Is it easy and comfortable to use?
- Durability: Can it withstand repeated use?
- Suggest improvements and refine the design.
7. **Presentation**
- Prepare a presentation that includes:
- The problem you addressed.
- Your research and initial ideas.
- Your final CAD design.
- Any testing results or observations.
- How you would further improve the design.
Evaluation Criteria
- **Creativity**: How innovative is the design?
- **Functionality**: Does the tool effectively move snow/sand?
- **Ergonomics**: Is the design user-friendly?
- **CAD Proficiency**: How well is the design executed in CAD?
- **Presentation**: Is the project clearly explained and justified?
Extensions
- Explore automation: Add simple motorized components or a crank mechanism.
- Analyze environmental impact: Consider the use of sustainable materials.
- Design for manufacturability: Create a version that could be easily mass-produced.
Resources
- CAD software tutorials.
- Example tools for inspiration (e.g., snow shovels, bulldozer blades).
- Simulation guides (if applicable).
- Materials for prototyping (e.g., cardboard, foam, 3D printing filament).
Learning Outcomes
By completing this project, students will:
- Develop skills in CAD modeling and mechanical design.
- Apply scientific and mathematical principles to solve engineering problems.
- Improve collaboration and communication skills through teamwork and presentations.
Teacher Tips
- Break the project into manageable phases with clear deadlines.
- Provide guidance on CAD tools and encourage peer mentoring.
- Incorporate mini-lessons on mechanical principles, like levers and inclined planes, to support design development.
- Celebrate creative designs with a classroom showcase or competition.