Space Structure Project

Jessica LinusEngineering Foundations of Technology II

March 25,2013Mrs. Fitzpatrick

Students will design a tower structure made out of limited materials in order to construct the tower with the following specifications

Define the Problem

Initially I had no idea where to start in terms of construction but I was able to map out key directives. There had to be two pieces that were collapsible and could allow a ping pong ball to pass through without restriction.

Brainstorm

ReasearchBeing that this project was more hands on an trial and error, it didn’t require much research.

Structure must be:

270mm tall Fit in a cargo area with a depth of 180mm x 100mm x 80 mm Base must be 80mm wide Base must be at least 30mm wider than top of structure Must be able to drop a regulation ping pong ball through the top

opening of the structure and fall through unobstructed. Can only use balsa wood and colored wood glue.

Identifying Criteria/Constraints

Explore PossibilitiesIt is evident that there are to be more than one pieces, I had

to choose between two or three and the measurements of the balsa wood.

I decided to make two pieces. One with a 80mm x 80mm base, and a 65mm x 65mm top. Another with a 65mm x 65mm base and a 50mm x 50mm top.

Selecting and Approach

Making a model

TestingMet specifications. Total height is 270mm and the base is 30mm wider than the top. The pieces can fit into one another and a ping pong ball can fall through the opening unobstructed.

My initial design was effective, therefore I didn’t need to refine anything.

Refining

Creating

My design was very effective and easy and met all specifications. I hope you have all enjoyed my presentation.

Results