The Crane Challenge

You are to build a crane that can lift the most weight in the least amount of time.

Specifications

• The crane needs to lift a weight or weights 80 cm. (from the ground to the height of the table).

• In lifting multiple weights, the motor must be reversible electrically.

• You may hook and unhook the weights manually.

• The crane needs to have an arm that extends beyond the table no more than 20 cm. The crane cannot support itself in two locations.

• The crane needs to be able to lift its weights without tipping.

• You may apply a maximum voltage of 3.0 V to the motor.

• You need to use the provided gear and motor kit.

Scoring

• There will be a friendly competition based on how much mass you can lift in two minutes.

• The time for the string to go down will be included in the timing.

Calculations

• Based on the gearing system (not following the directions) calculate the theoretical gearing ratio.

• Calculate the minimum weight needed to keep your crane balanced. (This is a torque problem.)