User:Stephen.eide/ENES-100/project 1

=Week 0 Introduction= Airplane float =Week 1 Narrative= Tasks:
 * Design a rubber band airplane which will float in the air for a long period of time
 * Make a lighter model than the last group
 * Decide if back wing is necessary in the design
 * Test out different materials for the plane

Research:

Why rear wing is necessary: rear wing.

The testing of materials did not happen this weekend.

Next Steps:
 * Create solid test for testing different plane materials
 * Test out different materials for the plane
 * Determine whether the rear wing needs to pitch the airplane up during flight

=Week 2 Narrative= Tasks:
 * Create a basic plane model with materials discussed in teams.

Doing

During class, the group decided to use these lightweight wooden sticks for the plane frame, and we would try using plastic wrap for the wings. The wings are rectangular and covered in the plastic wrap to catch the air under it, allowing for a slower descent.

Results

The plane was made, but the cheaper stick glue on hand didn't hold. The right wing fell off during a test throw.



Next Steps:
 * Get stronger glue
 * Rear wing
 * Propeller

=Week 3 Narrative= Nothing done to push project forward

=Week 4 Narrative= Tasks:
 * Look for tests which can find the Center of Gravity
 * Determine what kind of angle I would need for the propeller blade

Doing: Center of Gravity Test

Here is a video I found which explains the fundamentals of finding the Center of Gravity. This video involves RC planes, but the principle applies. Only need to watch the first 2 minutes.

Video


 * 1) Put all pieces of the model plane together EXCEPT the front wing.
 * 2) Find narrow object that can raise the plane above the table surface. This must be narrow enough so that the plane has trouble balancing flat when it is not on the center of gravity.
 * 3) Place model plane perpendicular on top of the narrow object.
 * 4) Mark point on the body where the plane can stay balanced. This is the center of gravity!

The front wing should be placed over the center of gravity to provide the best lift.

Next Steps
 * Take a plane model and run it through the test before putting on the front wings.