Conceptual Model
Identify the Problem |
The goal is to create a balsa wood tower able to hold as much weight as possible.
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Gussets
Lamination Tapered top Stands Several layers Layers with cross beams Pyramid shape Square shape |
Generate Ideas |
Constraints |
The only provided materials are balsa woods and glue
We can only use sandpaper to shape the balsa wood. The structure needs to fit a pole through the middle Size limitations: Minimum - 2" x 2" x 3" Maximum - 4" x 4" x 5" |
What factors are you using to determine the best Truss Tower
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Criteria |
Research |
Theoretical Research
Terms: Are pyramids or cubes stronger? Do notches strengthen structures? How do gussets help? Summaries: Pyramids are stronger Notches make it harder for the structure to break Gussets help distribute weight through the structure |
My group chose idea 4 because it scored the best on the idea matrix and because we believed it would do well performance wise. Another big component in our decision was whether or not we'd be able to be done making it in our given time. We believed idea 4 would be easy to construct and be more efficient than the other ideas when testing.
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Summary |
Graphical Model
Height: 5 inches
Width: 4 inches
Width: 4 inches
Mathematical Model
Working Model
Ultimately, the structure held 89 pounds and had .02" displacement.
The Redesign
Although there isn't enough time to construct another tower,there are several changes I would ideally make based on the mathematical model:
- I would make the tower heavier; whether that involves more glue or more balsa wood, the graph showed better performance when the tower was heavier. Granted, it becomes less efficient, but the stronger, the better.
- Another change I would make is make it more flexible. Although the graph showed little change in the weight held based on rigidity, I believe a tower that can shift and adjust to weight put on it will perform better than a tower that can hold a certain amount of weight then promptly snap when it has reached its limits.