Vector Decomposition Box demonstration tool

Description

Note: This model has been designed, but not yet fabricated, by the EEP team. Fabrication instructions are provided should there be a desire or use for this design in the future.

This model will help students visualize a vector and planes in 3D space. It is required that the vector be of variable length and direction, with the ability to attach planes along its length. It must also be optimal for online instruction, meaning that size and color choice are important considerations.

The team has designed a model, pictured below, with three intersecting acrylic pieces that contain the vector, forming an open box. A connected ball joint and antenna will sit in the corner of this acrylic box and serve as the vector. The ball joint will allow the vector to rotate to change direction, and the telescoping antenna can expand or collapse to varied lengths. A rigid sheet may be purchased and attached to this antenna-vector to symbolize a plane in 3D space; the team recommends beeswax paper, as it easily changes and holds its shape. The acrylic sides of the box will be bright color and 10” in length to accommodate online instruction.

Engineering Concept Covered

Vector in 3D space

How to Use

The ball joint and antenna connection allows for variability of direction and magnitude, thus the user can manipulate this connection to create a “vector” of any size and length within the 3D space of the box. Each side of the box represents a different axis; x, y, and z. By rotating the joint and extending or collapsing the antenna, the vector may be created in relation to the space.

It is important to pause here and remind readers of this manual that the team has not completed fabrication of this model. Bearing this in mind, the following are suggestions for how to best represent planes in 3D space:

• The nature of the material of beeswax allows for the user to shape the paper as desired, and reshape without creating creases- thus this material was deemed optimal

• Ideally, the user will be able to create planes of many shapes (rectangular, triangular, etc), so it is best to select an inexpensive material that is easy to cut

• The beeswax paper can be wrapped around the antenna vector and held in place as the user leads instruction or visualizes the space

Fabricators of this model may choose to add measurements to their chosen planes (beeswax paper) or axes (box sides), or by any other means customize this design to their requirements. The goal of this model is to provide users with the most efficient method for visualizing a vector in 3D space, thus, improvements or changes can be made as the fabricator sees fit.