1ALRDY
3D-printed rubber band-powered car
Project Manager · M1 Group 01 · Engineering (general) · 2025-10-01 – 2025-12-06
Context
We were tasked with designing a small car powered by a single rubber band which travels a) the fastest to 3 metres and b) the furthest distance possible. The constraints of this project included, but were not limited to: construction materials, dimensional restrictions, incorporation of a moving mechanism, use of a single elastic band, and resemblance of a scaled-down car.
Approach
The design process generally follows Ostafichuk and Jaeger’s steps of problem clarification and study, solution development and brainstorming, selection of a solution using a decision matrix, prototyping and testing of said solution, and finally implementation. For our design, we focused on acceleration, traction, modularity, aerodynamics, aesthetics, and sustainability. Prototyping and testing exceeded ten separate design iterations, with multiple variations of mechanisms and car bodies being tested rigorously over several months. My contributions include coming up with a novel yet simple wind-up mechanism, leading the rapid iteration of the car, testing prototypes with precise data collection, and keeping the team on track during weekly in-person syncs.
Outcome
a) The fastest to 3 metres with a time of approximately 1.483 seconds, and b) The farthest, colliding with the classroom's wall at 11.72 metres, winning both races in an unprecedented fashion. In previous years, the best car would only travel around 3-4 metres. Due to winning both races, each individual in our team achieved a 4% bonus added to our overall course average.
