Lab: Structural Integrity

Goal: To determine maximum support possible with limited materials.

Materials

Plastic or paper bowl or cup
Supply of sheets of notebook or printer paper. (Note the bond weight)
1 role of masking tape (do not use duct tape or clear plastic tape)
Supply of weights (nickels, quarters will do well)

Procedure

Build any structure you wish using up to 30 of your sheets at one time.
The structure must support a flat surface for your container. Add units of mass until the structure collapses.
You may redesign your structure several times, attempting each time to increase the weight-bearing capacity.

Data Handling

Identify each trial. Describe the structure architecture and method of construction. (For your own records, take pictures!)
Note maximum weight added just prior to collapse.

Report

Besides the normal descriptions of your materials, procedures, and data, identify two principles of construction that allowed you to increase your structure's weight-bearing capacity.

Post your report to the Lab assignment link at the Moodle.

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