Rubber Band Powered Car

A Freshman Engineering Design Project
Developed by P.K. Imbrie, Purdue University
(Developed while at Texas A&M University)

                                               Click here for the PDF version of the lesson

Overview:

For this project, students will work in teams to design a rubber band powered “car,” using only the materials provided to them by the instructor and following given design constraints.  Upon completion of the project, teams will enter the vehicles in a competition against the other student teams and turn in a team written report detailing the project and their design.

Learning Objectives or Student Outcomes:

By the end of this lesson or activity, students will be able to

1.       design a rubber band powered “car,” given a specific set of unalterable design specifications that must be met;

2.       design this vehicle for optimal performance in speed, distance and power;

3.       enter this vehicle in a competition with other student-designed vehicles; and

4.   complete an team written report detailing the project.

Team Size/Composition:

Teams of 4 work best; if necessary, a few teams of 3 or 5 may be formed.

How is positive interdependence ensured?

Each team creates one vehicle, working together to develop the design using the one set of materials and to carry out their plan. In addition, the final written project report is a team report.

How is individual accountability built in to the project?

Peer evaluations may be used to ensure individual accountability.

Basis or Components of Assessment:

Students will be informed of deliverables prior to beginning the project.   These deliverables include

• Team-designed rubber band powered vehicle
• Team written report detailing the project

If available, projects from past semesters may be provided for students to see.  Designs should be reviewed periodically throughout the duration of the project—either on established dates or randomly.

Team Skills Needed for Success:

Students need to have the ability to cooperate, communicate, and collaborate with other group members regarding their ideas and concerns.
 
Materials Needed for each Team: 

1.  Corrugated cardboard box (10"x6"x3")
2.  ¼" diameter by 18" dowel rod
3.  12 paper clips (4 each of 3 different sizes)
4.  21 rubber bands (7 each of 3 different sizes)

Content Lesson Links:

Instruction to Students

Report Requirements  

                                       Lesson   |   Instruction to Students |  Report Requirements  

2002, P.K. Imbrie                                                                                                                                                                                         
These materials may be duplicated for educational purposes if properly credited.