Quick Reference Notes on Mousetrap Cars & the EDP

*Mousetraps & the EDP

*Potential vs. Kinetic Energy

*Step 1: Define the Problem!

How can we use potential and kinetic energy to make small, raceable vehicles?

You (& your teammate) must design a mobile vehicle that is powered by the snap of a mousetrap arm using K’Nex and any other materials that you decide to bring in.

*Step 2: Do background research!

We have already done some research:

1- Mechanical Engineering videos & papers

2- K’Nex simple & complex machine research and building

3- Mousetrap car PowerPoint Presentation

4- Kahoot quiz review

5- Now, spend 20 minutes to find out everything you can online about kinetic energy propelled vehicles!

**CITE EVERY SOURCE YOU USE FOR THE EoSR**

*More Research!!!

Read and take notes on yellow handouts in the basket!

(please return when you are done)

*Step 3: Specify Requirements!

*Materials

*You decide

*Size

*Be sure to measure using the tools in the student cabinet

*Weight

*Use the scale to weigh in grams (do this after you have built the car)

*Aerodynamics

*Write in your journal about what parts of your mousetrap car are aerodynamic & how you designed them

*Teams of two

*You choose your partners; make sure they are someone you work well with! Their work ethic effects your grade, too!

*Step 4: Brainstorm Solutions!

Work with your partner to design -IN YOUR FIELD JOURNALS- at least three different designs that could work.

*Step 5: Choose the Best Solution

*After referencing ALL of your notes, decide with your partner that of the three (or more) that you designed, which looks like it would work the best in the competition? Why?

*Write your findings in your field journals.

*Step 6: Do Development Work!

*Further research your design and it’s parts.

*Be sure to write everything in your field journal!

*What will be best for…

*Chassie, axels, wheels, hub, lever arm, etc.

*Will you add extra parts or substitute materials? Why or why not??

*Step 7: BUILD IT!

•Using the K’Nex, bring your 2 dimensional design into 3 dimensional life!

•Take your time- make sure to test as you go to fix any problems!

*Step 8: Test It…

*We will be racing these against each other and seeing who has the best results (distance).

*Depending on timing, it will either be in the gym, tool lab, or hallway.

*Step 9: Communicate Results!

*After we race them, review your notes in your field journals and write your End of Station Report to turn in.

*Be sure to include all notes & rubric when you turn everything in.

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