Rubber Band Powered Airplane

 

This is a toy airplane, powered by a rubber band. It is approximately 12 inches long. The propeller is wound up by the user, storing energy in the rubber band as it winds. The user will then throw the airplane just like a paper airplane, except the rotating propeller will provide additional thrust, and the airplane will be able to travel much further. While it would be better to use this plane outside in low wind conditions, it can also be used inside in a large room, like a gymnasium. Children ages 6 and up can use this airplane. I feel children should be at least 10 years old in order to grasp the more subtle concepts of flight, like how the wings create lift using a curved profile.

This toy gives children an introduction into how airplanes work. Children can see how the shape of the wings creates lift, and can also gain a basic understanding about how a propeller works. They can also see how the rubber band stores energy when they wind it up.

The rubber band is replaceable, since it will probably break after extended use, or if it is wound up too much. This also allows the rubber band to be replaced with stiffer (or softer) rubber bands. A softer rubber band would unwind slower, but would take longer to unwind. This would provide flights that were further but slower.

The airplane will be constructed out of firm foam, so it isn't dangerous, but is still durable. The propeller is stiff enough so the child can wind it up, but not sharp or hard, so the child can't get cut by the propeller. The wings are removable, and will clip onto the body of the airplane. It will allow the airplane to be packaged into a smaller box. The propeller will also be removable. The plane will come with three different sized propellers, so the children can see how this affects the flight of the airplane. This toy will cost under $20. It is constructed primarily of foam, except for the hooks for the rubber bands, and the axel for the propeller.

Toy concept 2 | Toy concept 3
Eric Couphos
Carnegie Mellon University
February 6, 2008