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Week 1
Week 1
Windmill and generator: Civil and Environmental Engineering
Civil engineering is the branch of engineering that focuses on designing, building, and maintaining infrastructure such as roads, bridges, buildings, dams, and water systems. Civil engineers work to ensure structures are safe, durable, and efficient.
Environmental engineering applies science and engineering principles to improve the environment. It focuses on solving problems related to water and air pollution, waste management, and sustainability. Environmental engineers work to protect human health and the planet by developing clean technologies and systems.
Summary
In the first week, the team learnt the basics of physics and the process that an engineer would take to design and build a project. Through different activities the team learnt how to build a motor and design a windmill through hands on activities and online websites. Ultimately, through the activities and experimentation the team was able to build a smaller version of a windmill.
Windmill Building
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 1:
Constructing the windmill base.
Throughout this stage, we evaluated multiple design options to ensure our windmill would remain stable while the blades rotated. We ultimately chose a tripod-inspired structure reinforced with additional side supports—an ideal combination for both balance and durability.
Figure 2:
Shaping the blades from balsa wood.
While the rest of the team focused on assembling the base, Henry carefully cut the blades from lightweight balsa wood. Chloe later assisted by sanding and precisely measuring the blade angles to maximize wind capture and efficiency.
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Figure 3:
Unexpected damage control.
On the final day, a mishap occurred when Chloe accidentally dropped the speaker onto the windmill base. We quickly sprang into action to replace the damaged wood component, ensuring the structure remained intact and functional.
Figure 4:
Henry and Yulin collaborate to construct the vertical frame of the windmill. Surrounded by tools and materials, the team discusses measurements and angles to ensure structural stability during the rotation of the blades.
Figure 5:
Yulin holds the windmill’s frame steady while Henry uses a power drill to secure the support beams. Meanwhile, another team member focuses on assembling additional structural components at the workbench.
Figure 4
Figure 5
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