S.T.A.R. Project
Project Goals
- Design a creative solution to solving a problem in the community.
- Learn to design a project that can be completed within a given time period with no down time or unfinished tasks.
Learning Goals
- Learn a structured approach to problem solving
- Prepare for the real world by learning how to approach behavioral based interview questions
The Build Phase
The first step in building our tool holding stations was to figure out a design. We decided on a triangular prism design, that would be able to spin as well.
After we had come up with a design and figured out dimensions, we built 5 triangular prisms and 5 bases.
After the bases and prisms were built, we moved on to converting the plain prisms into tool racks. We added screws and other small things to hold tools. Finally, we used wood glue and wood scraps to reinforce screws in hopes of making the tool racks last longer.
Results
The tool racks turned out great, and will help solve the problem of loose tools all over work tables.
We successfully used a structured approach to problem solving, and came up with a creative solution to our problem
Conclusions
One informal lesson I learned from this project was that sometimes trial and error is a good idea. When deciding how to mount tools on the racks, I simply tried different configurations to see what would function best.
Another informal lesson I learned was when mass producing a product, use an assembly line.
If I were to start this project over from the beginning, I would not change anything.
It was a fun project to build, especially the trial and error of designing the racks.
This project is great for students because it teaches them many different skills.