“Let’s make this an egg-stra safe landing!”
Design a Rocket That Safely Launches & Returns Two Sideways-Oriented Eggs Using CAD/CAM Tools.
🎯 Project Goal
Students will use CAD software (e.g., SolidWorks, Fusion 360, Tinkercad) and engineering design principles to:
- Design a model rocket that cradles two raw eggs sideways (simulating astronauts).
- Simulate a flight reaching approximately 790 feet in altitude and returning within 41–44 seconds.
- Focus on safe, stable, and protective design, assuming flight is simulated or conducted using non-hazardous model rocket components (no explosive fuels—use simulation software or rubber band propulsion for physical trials).
🔧 Tools & Resources
- CAD Software: SolidWorks (via SolidProfessor), Fusion 360, Tinkercad (free and beginner-friendly)
- CAM/Simulation Tools: SolidWorks Simulation, Fusion 360 Simulation, Algodoo (for 2D physics), or simple projectile motion calculators
- Basic materials for physical prototyping (optional): foam board, cardboard tubes, rubber bands, parachutes (from fabric), tape
🌀 Beginner Version
Week 1–2: Define & Research
- Learn the basics of CAD design
- Research basic aerodynamic principles and egg protection techniques
- Review sample rockets from online model rocket resources
Week 3: Design the Egg Cradle
- Use CAD to design a protective cradle for two eggs lying sideways
- Must include padding zones (foam, elastic bands, or bubble shapes)
Week 4: Rocket Structure Design
- Add the body: cylinder with fins and nose cone
- Include a parachute housing for safe return (simulate with soft descent components)
- Design constraints:
- Lightweight structure (simulated materials)
- Smooth aerodynamic shape
Week 5: Assembly and Test
- Use simulation tools or projectile motion calculators to estimate trajectory
- Virtually "launch" and observe results
- Adjust design to meet the 790 ft / 41–44 seconds goal using variables:
- Fin size
- Nose cone shape
- Egg location
- Parachute size
🚀 Advanced Version
Engineering Extensions:
- CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) simulation of airflow around the rocket in SolidWorks/Fusion
- Design a deployable fin or stabilizer that adjusts mid-flight
- Use CAD motion studies to simulate egg movement inside the cradle upon descent
- Introduce constraints like mass limits, cost limits, or launchpad dimensions
- Generate technical drawings and an engineering portfolio documenting design rationale
📚 Learning Outcomes
Students will:
- Apply engineering design thinking (define, design, test, iterate)
- Build and interpret digital 3D models
- Understand projectile motion and force distribution
- Develop problem-solving and documentation skills
“Egg-stra credit if you keep both eggs intact!”
🌟 Optional Next Steps
In addition, you may want to consider having students join the nationwide rocket contest:
👉 The American Rocketry Challenge (Unaffiliated with SolidProfessor)
Students compete to design, build, and launch rockets that meet real-world criteria and flight goals.
And check out their STEM Innovation Grant Program, which can provide resources for educators to support rocketry and aerospace learning:
👉 STEM Innovation Grant Program - The American Rocketry Challenge (Unaffiliated with SolidProfessor)