Basic Laws of Physics Exhibits

http://thetechvirtual.org/projects/basic-physics/basic-physics-projects/

The Tech Museum is seeking up to 3  interactives on the topic of basic laws of physics.

For designs chosen to be installed, we are able to offer $600 USD per team member (maximum 3 per team).    
     

Please read closely the descriptions of the interactives:

These "exhibits" should be composed of simple, hands-on experiments that engage the young visitor in the direct experience of the basic laws of physics.  The activity of doing the interactive should reveal the physics topics principles.

   - simple, hands-on experiments
   - basic principles, not applications of those principles.  These are almost more simple physics experiments than museum exhibits.
     Most of the interest and pedagogy are in the making and viewing of the videos.  These are mainly conversation pieces for the videos.
   - target age: 12-15
   - not just to interest boys
   - teach principles that relate to school curriculum (or should) and might be useful for Tech Challenge participants.
   - demonstrate a single principle as much as possible
   - optionally a challenge - hard enough that it isn't obvious to most people, but easy enough that everyone will get it after
      seeing a video, if not before.
   - avoid "black boxes"

Topics in the mix: (Read full details at: http://thetechvirtual.org/projects/basic-physics/physics-topic-details)
magnets
pulleys
lever
gears
pendulum
gravity
ballistics
action reaction
buoyancy
focal point
prisms
inclined plane
weightlessness
atmospheric pressure
electromagnet
electric circuit

Or start your own here:

1. Text description with details as listed at: http://thetechvirtual.org/projects/resources/list-of-exhibit-components  This goes on your project page.

2. Four (4) images describing the project uploaded to: http://www.thetechvirtual.org  These could be photos/screenshots of models, sketches, flowcharts or other visual communications of the project.  These are uploaded in the files associated with the project.

3. Work as an individual or team.  A team may not have more than 3 members.

4. Exhibit has passed at least 2 documented design reviews. During the review you will be given feedback from the project manager and curators. If your exhibit does not sufficiently meet the criteria or show progress it may be removed after the 2nd review. These are scheduled bi-weekly but can also occur as needed.

5. Criteria for design reviews: Exhibit must be on-topic.  Exhibit must be clearly documented with text description (#1) and images(#2). Exhibit must be feasible to be built as a  museum interaction. Exhibit must be interactive and obvious in its interactivity (do not rely on signage).  If using the virtual prototyping area, model must link to the project page.  More criteria may be added to this list.

Exhibits that have passed 2 design reviews may be chosen for fabrication at any time during the process.

Resources:
1. Each project will  be allotted space to build a virtual model in our prototyping area.
2. Focus of work will be on individual exhibits.  For adventurous designers, we may be able to provide a model of the space itself.
3. We have assembled a list of some helpful online services which may assist in your
     work at: http://thetechvirtual.org/projects/resources
4. Get assistance and help by posting your talent needs or abilities at: http://thetechvirtual.org/helpwanted

5. Collaborate!  The purpose of this project is to generate good work.  This is a chance to show the effectiveness of distributed teams.

    This is a design exercise, not a sweepstakes. Entries will receive guidance at design reviews.

    Use various formats (sketches, screenshots encouraged) so that a wide audience can see your work.

    Remember, we are designing real, not virtual exhbits.

Or start your own here: