Engineering a Ping Pong Ball Retriever
Students use the engineering design process while learning about accessibility for people with physical disabilities in Egypt. Students are challenged to create a reusable prototype to help a wheelchair table tennis team pick up ping pong balls. Before building their prototypes, students research the trash and waste problem in Egypt, compiling a list of sustainable materials that can be used to build their devices. Students then individually brainstorm and plan at least two different devices before coming together in teams to develop one group prototype design. After building, testing, and improving their prototypes, student groups present their prototypes to the class.
Student building their prototype.Copyright Abigail Wilker
Mechanical engineers are vital due to their expertise in designing, analyzing, and optimizing mechanical systems and devices across various industries. Their contributions range from improving energy efficiency and sustainability in manufacturing processes to designing safer and more reliable transportation systems. By applying principles of physics, mathematics, and materials science, mechanical engineers play a crucial role in innovation and technological advancement, driving economic growth and improving quality of life.
After this activity, students should be able to:
- Identify and describe the steps of the engineering design process.
- Use the engineering design process to develop solutions for the assigned challenge.
- Explain the reasons for their selected designs and material choices.