"Future Technology City" Unpowered Flying Car Challenge

Disciplines/Subjects: Engineering Design, Physics, Mathematics, Art

Key Themes:Gravity Drive, Green Energy, Engineering Innovation, Physics Modeling，Track Car

Set against the backdrop of a future energy crisis, fourth-grade learners take on the role of "Tomorrow Tech City Engineers" to design and build a gravity-powered, zero-energy vehicle. By studying track parameters (a test track that is 2 meters high and 7.5 meters long), they apply engineering thinking to optimize the wheelbase, track width, and center of gravity, addressing the challenge of balancing stability on curves with speed.

Throughout the project, learners go through the entire process of problem definition (energy needs) - conceptual design (three-view drawing) - material selection (lightweight wood/plastic structure) - iterative testing (speed and friction control) - and product launch (tech expo roadshow). Using limited materials (A4 plywood, 3D-printed gears, etc.), they create an eco-friendly vehicle. This project showcases a deep integration of engineering design thinking and physical principles (potential energy conversion, friction mechanics), and through teamwork, learners achieve a leap from design to reality.

Habits of mind:

1. Innovative Thinking
2. Logical Reasoning
3. Problem-Solving Skills

Cognitive skills:

1. Engineering Design Thinking
2. Data Analysis

Content Knowledge:

1. Energy Conservation Law
2. Measure and calculate speed