First Step

 Research and Conceptual Design

• Initial knowledge: (Day 1)

  • Introduction to the physics of mousetrap cars: potential and kinetic energy, work, power, friction, torque, rotational motion, and basic kinematics.

  • Discuss the concept of mechanical advantage in linear and rotational systems.

  • Show examples of successful and unsuccessful mousetrap car designs, analyzing the principles at play. (You tube video)

  • Facilitate brainstorming sessions on different car designs, focusing on how to maximize energy transfer and minimize losses.

• Activities: (Day 2-3)

  • Research: Students research existing mousetrap car designs, focusing on the relationship between lever arm length, wheel size, axle diameter, and performance. They should analyze the trade-offs involved in different designs.

  • Conceptual Design: Students individually or in small teams develop 2-3 initial design concepts, sketching their ideas and outlining the key features and materials they plan to use.

  • Mechanical Advantage Analysis (Initial): For each concept, students should analyze how they intend to leverage mechanical advantage to achieve the project goal.

• Resources:

  • Online resources (videos, website, competition guidelines).

  • Physics textbooks covering energy, motion, and friction.

  • Examples of mousetraps and basic car components (wheels, axles, string, bushings).

• Feedback: (Day 4)

  • Review of initial design concepts, providing feedback on feasibility, potential challenges, and the understanding of mechanical advantage principles.