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Design and Construct a Model Hot-Air Balloon. Challenge. To design and construct a model hot-air balloon. Flights will be timed and the balloon that flies for the longest time is the winner. All achievement begins with an individual who says “I can do it.”. Background.
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Challenge • To design and construct a model hot-air balloon. Flights will be timed and the balloon that flies for the longest time is the winner. All achievement begins with an individual who says “I can do it.”
Background • A typical hot-air balloon consists of an envelope which is commonly made of nylon or polyester.
Background • The envelope is made of a combination of sections, called “gores”. Balloons often have 8, 12, 18, 20, or 24 gores.
Background • Load tapes are sewn into the gores as they are manufactured. The load tapes are then connected to the attachment cables for the basket or gondola.
Background • Hot-air balloons have a deflation port at the top, and a maneuvering vent on the side. • Propane is the most common fuel source for the burners.
Supplies • Dry cleaner bags • Kite string • Rubber bands • Paper clips • Masking tape • Straws • Typing paper
Tools • Popcorn popper heater • Masking tape • Paper • Scissors • Marker • Glue
Guidelines • 10 minutes is allowed for balloon design • Draw design on large paper • All changes must be added to original design on paper
Guidelines • Have instructor approve design and wait until all designs are approved before beginning construction • Use only supplies provided
Guidelines • Construction and testing is only allowed during time specified by instructor • Balloons may be tested as many times as needed within allowed time • Flight tests are done in construction area
Guidelines • Each group will be given 5 minutes for flight preparation • Each group will have one chance to fly their balloon • Flight time is recorded and the longest flight wins
Discussion • Why did the winning design perform as it did? • How could the winning balloon design be improved to increase flight performance? • What was your group’s strategy?
Discussion • Did any leaders emerge from the group? If so, how? • How well did your group work together and how could it have been improved?
All achievement begins with an individual who says “I can do it.” We hope this activity has helped you feel that you “can do it.”