Help with a Physics car project please

In summary, the request seeks assistance with a physics project involving a car, likely requiring guidance on concepts such as motion, forces, energy, or mechanics to successfully complete the assignment.
  • #1
Dubskiehrye
1
0
Homework Statement
Engineering/Physics Car (Almost Exactly Science Olympiad Scrambler)
Relevant Equations
Ug--->K
Hello a group of students and I are trying to design a car with a wingnut breaking mechanism. However instead of the wingnut hitting the washer connected to the wood and stopping the threaded rod from rotating the threaded rod and wheels actually shift left while the wingnut stays stationary, and the right wheel hitting the wood is gthe thing that actually stops the vehicle. Does anyone have a fix to this?
 
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  • #2
Draw a picture
 
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Likes berkeman
  • #3
Welcome, @Dubskiehrye !

Could you describe the braking mechanism in more detail?
Are you able to draw a basic diagram showing us the arrangement of the mentioned parts?

Perhaps the left brake is undesirably rotating the wingnut?
If so, safety wire may be a solution.
 

FAQ: Help with a Physics car project please

1. What materials do I need for my physics car project?

For a basic physics car project, you will need materials such as a lightweight chassis (like cardboard or plastic), wheels (which can be made from bottle caps or small plastic wheels), axles (like wooden dowels or skewers), a rubber band or a small motor for propulsion, and various weights to test different designs. Additionally, you may want tools like scissors, a ruler, and glue.

2. How do I design my physics car to maximize distance traveled?

To maximize the distance traveled by your physics car, focus on minimizing friction and optimizing the weight distribution. Use smooth wheels and axles to reduce friction. Experiment with the placement of weights to find a balance that allows for effective propulsion without being too heavy. Aerodynamic design can also help reduce air resistance.

3. What type of propulsion system should I use for my physics car?

You can choose between several propulsion systems for your physics car. A common option is a rubber band-powered system, where the potential energy stored in the stretched rubber band is converted into kinetic energy. Alternatively, you can use a small electric motor powered by batteries for a more advanced project. Each system has its advantages, so consider your project's requirements and complexity.

4. How can I measure the speed of my physics car?

To measure the speed of your physics car, you can use a simple stopwatch to time how long it takes to travel a certain distance. For more accurate measurements, set up a marked track and use a photogate or a smartphone app that can track motion. Calculate the speed by dividing the distance traveled by the time taken.

5. What are some common mistakes to avoid in a physics car project?

Common mistakes include not testing different designs before finalizing one, neglecting to account for friction, and using materials that are too heavy or not sturdy enough. Additionally, ensure that your wheels are aligned properly to avoid dragging, and be mindful of the balance of your car to prevent it from tipping over during motion.

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