Part 2: Prototype Drone Attachment
Drone Attachment Challenge: Prototype Model
Today, you’re becoming an engineer! Your challenge is to design and build a functional attachment for a drone. This attachment will allow a drone to lift, carry, or move objects. First, you’ll create a physical prototype, and then you’ll bring your design into the digital world with Tinkercad.
Inspiration
Before you start, watch this video to see some creative drone attachment ideas in action:
The Challenge 🚁
Your mission is to design, build, and test a drone attachment prototype that can successfully interact with an object. Think about creating a hook, a claw, a basket, or something completely new!
Your goals are to:
Brainstorm and sketch your ideas on paper.
Build a physical prototype of your best design using simple materials.
Test and improve your prototype. Actually attach and test your prototype -this is super important!
Activity Steps
Brainstorm & Sketch: Think about what you want your drone to do. Pick an object you want to move – lift a bouncy ball, transport candy, dangle a hot dog to rescue a dog. Sketch at least two different ideas for your attachment. Label the parts and think about how they will connect to the drone. Be sure your prototype won’t affect the drone sensors!
Build Your First Prototype: Choose your best design and start building! Use the materials provided to create a cardboard version of your sketch. Focus on making it lightweight but strong.
Test & Refine: Carefully test your attachment. Does it hold the object? Is it stable? What works well? What doesn’t? Make adjustments to improve your design.
Post a photo or video of your working prototype below
