Life Size STEM

I was never interested in building model cars. I couldn’t understand gluing a component on that doesn’t work or move. I’m very interested in what makes things move, and how the motors work. Everything from windup motors to battery power to plug in power. Some of my favorite memories are of the H.O. scale race cars and trains. H.O. sold components for slot cars that you could mix to build or design your own better car. You could buy separate motor windings, motor brushes, and electric pick-ups. You could buy just motor magnet or chassis or car bodies. There were a verity of wheels and tires to choose form.
Having access to a verity of components when combined work together. Having the time to understand financing new parts and how different components preform is priceless. Model size observation and experimentation is important in developing STEM thinking. Model size work only helps conceptually understanding how it works. Model size lacks understanding true physics and real world application. At full scale we get to experiment and understand friction related to traction and stopping. At full scale we work with and feel the difference between speed and acceleration? We address power, what does it mean where does it come from and how much do we need? We can look at horsepower verses watts.
What can be the most important aspect of full scale work is seeing all the scientific principles working together at the same time. When students experience full scale it becomes clear how the different scientific principles work together with physics. Students can actually begin to see ways to develop prototype work into real products that can be marketed and sold to create business and new STEM jobs.

Greg Rice

Solar Car Project Director