Welcome to the world of mechanical engineering!
After this activity, you’ll know how to use the Design Thinking Process to solve problems like an engineer. Every day, a mechanical engineer invents another machine to help people or solve a problem—such as nonpolluting cars or a better hearing aid.
Who knows what machines we’ll need next! If solving problems excites you, you may want to think about becoming a mechanical engineer so that you can invent these machines yourself!
Learn about air power and create an alternative fuel car.
1. Learn about potential and kinetic energy
2. Design and build a balloon car
3. Test your balloon-powered car
4. Analyze and share results
5. Brainstorm ways to improve your design
Upon completion of this activity, you will earn the Balloon Car Design Challenge. When you earn this badge, you'll know how to engineer a balloon-powered car and understand potential energy, kinetic energy, and jet propulsion.
This is an in-person event, with a maximum number of 10 participants to ensure safe distancing and caution. All participants are required to wear a mask, bring their own water bottle, and social distance.
Please fill out and bring the following forms to participate.
