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Workshops: M&M'S Launcher

THE CHALLENGE

Using materials purchased by your construction budge build an instrument for launching m&m's as far as possible. This engineering problem is solved by experimenting with the physical properties of the materials and trying out different ideas.

RULES

  • The launcher must have within the design at least two simple machines: (LEVER, PULLEY, WHEEL & AXLE, SCREW, INCLINED PLANE, or WEDGE) in other words it must be a compound machine.
  • You must draw at least two preliminary designs before purchasing materials.
  • There must be at least two people on the design team.
  • You will be limited to a construction budget of $1000 per team to purchase supplies.
  • Hint: Keep in mind launching devices like a catapult or a slingshot.

MATERIALS AND COST

  • Cups ($200)
  • Straight pins ($10 for TEN)
  • Plastic spoons ($500)
  • Soda can ($50)
  • Rubber bands ($100)
  • Tongue depressors/popstix ($50)
  • Cardboard ($100)
  • Thumb tacks ($10 for FIVE)
  • Paper clips ($10 for FIVE)
  • Straw ($10)
  • Cardboard wheels ($50 a piece)
  • Clothes pin ($20)
  • String ($100 per foot)
  • Wooden spools ($200)