Problem Solving: Transportation Systems

The Activity: Egg Crash Vehicle

To design and build a vehicle that will carry an egg safely down a wooden ramp and protect it from cracking as it does the following… The Problem:

Objectives: Travels further than 33 feet down ramp. Crashes into brick wall 12 “ from bottom of ramp and leaves the occupant in one piece. Costs $25.00 or less to build.

The Vehicle Constraints or Limitations

Constraints:  Specifications  Width of Vehicle: at least 3 inches but not wider than 7 inches including the wheels.  Length of Vehicle: at least 6 inches but not more than 8 inches  Height of Vehicle: not taller than 4 inches (measured from “ground” to top of roof)

Materials One of the seven resources of technology. The others are: People Information Tools/ Machines Capital Energy Time

. Material Constraints The chassis (frame) will be made out of masonite. YOU MAY NOT GLUE OR STAPLE ANYTHING TO CHASSIS. Staples and glue are free!! You may purchase any of the following materials up to the stated limits. However, in no case will a student be allowed to purchase more than the allowable amount nor will any other materials from the technology lab or home be allowed. ( if tape becomes ‘unsticky’ it can be replaced. Lost pieces will be replaced for free). Nothing may be glued to masonite or axle holders.

Material Maximum Amt. Allowed Price Per Piece Masonite base(3”x6”)1 piece $6.00 each Axle (1/8” x 5”) (wood)2 piece 1.00 each Wheels4 pieces 1.00 each Cardboard (3”x6”)2 piece 1.00 each Stick wood (1/4” x 1/2” x 12”)2 pieces 2.00 each Straw1 piece 1.00 each Oak tag (8” x 10”)2 piece 2.00 each Cotton Balls3 pieces 1.00 each Masking Tape 10 inches 2.00 each String10 inches 1.00 each Rubber Bands3 pieces 1.00 each Paper Clips4 pieces 1.00 each Tongue Depressors2 pieces 1.00 each Your Total Cost$ __________.00