B. Earthquake-Proof Building
Instructions (Part I): View the below video for an introduction to your challenge.
Instructions (Part II): Imagine a method for creating the tallest possible earthquake-proof building using only your gumdrops and toothpicks. You will be asked to simulate an earthquake using the method below.
Instructions (Part III): Reflect on a possible structural design method and make a clear sketch of your idea on a sheet of paper. You will construct your building on a piece of cardboard as shown above. Below are a two different examples.
Instructions (Part IV): Using your drawing as a guide, construct your earthquake-proof building. In preparation for testing, carefully remove one side of the cardboard box your materials arrived in to use as your base. Your building must be freestanding.
Instructions (Part V): Test how earthquake-proof your building is using the method shown above. Keep your motions constant so you can compare different trials accurately. During each “quake” make a note of your structure’s strengths and weakness for future adjustment.
Instructions (Part VI): Review the strengths and weaknesses from your tests. Make any necessary revisions you like and test how earthquake-proof your new revision is using the same method from before. Record a video of your best trial.
Instructions (Part VII): Review the strengths and weaknesses from your tests. Make any necessary revisions you like and test how earthquake-proof your new revision is using the same method from before. Record a video of your best trial and and share it below. Type your first name in the “Subject” area. A QR code is provided below for ease of upload.
