Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

i am trying to find out how to build a small scale project, the only real requirments is that it must be as big as a normal size shoe box, no bigger. my teacher is testing our structures with a machine that will shake our projects, my project cannot break or crack. I am tryingto build a little cuilding that can withstand this shaking. so i was wondering if anyone had any ideas about this because i have none!


this project is due 1/25/07

if anyone has ANY Ideas pleas reply to this

As a place to start, I suggest looking at pictures of different types of bridges. You may get some ideas on how to place support beams and general design for strength.

Construction material can be thin strips of balsa wood and glue available at craft shops.

Matt Mulanax

You could try FEMA and from their look at earthquakes.

Try the following google searches:

structures types truss arch earthquakes

structures earthquakes "science fair"

structures earthquakes balsa

I think these will give you more than enough ideas and reference information.

Good luck!