Past projects 3
Mars Expedition Habitats
Funded Mar 10, 2017As you know the distance from Earth to Mars is considerable. In fact, it could take from 150 to 300 Earth days for travel to Mars depending on the speed of the launch, the alignment of the Earth to Mars, and other factors. So one can see the supply chain from Earth to Mars would be considerable once humans set up a base of operations on the Martian surface. Therefore, the logic around the design of livable habitats and an energy source to power lights, transportation, robotic machinery, and other support equipment like 3D printers and laser cutting technology to make repair parts at the Martian base may be accomplished utilizing solar energy. THAT IS WHERE YOUR DONATIONS COME INTO PLAY. You are purchasing solar cells with fans to simulate a power source that may be used for the previously mentioned resources. THANK ALL OF YOU VERY MUCH for your generous contributions to this project. It is designed to encourage our students to think about the possibilities they have to create a successful future whether it be here on Earth or elsewhere in the Universe!”
With gratitude,
Teacher Gruenfelder
Bucky Fuller - Alive and Well
Funded Sep 15, 2014Buckminster Fuller's credo was "making the world work for 100% of humanity, in the shortest possible time, through spontaneous cooperation, without ecological offense or the disadvantage of anyone."
The Geodesic Dome concept is a remarkable attempt to accomplish this task. Dome habitats exist at the South Pole, in our neighborhoods, and for emergency shelters in times of crisis. Perhaps we will be living under these domes on Mars in the near future! My students are experiencing this in our classroom.
With the monetary commitment of Staples and GoogleLA, my Engineering & Design students first experienced the mathematical beauty of circles and polygons by designing and fabricating scale geodesic dome models. They could not use glue, tape or staples to assemble the polygons. Then each of seven classes judged their classmates' scale models utilizing a point system. One was chosen from each class to be the Project Manager who managed the full scale design from start to finish. Everyone in the class pitched in with the cutting and gaffers' tape assembly of 3/16" foam board. 3" mailing tubes were utilized for column supports to elevate the dome structures above our computers to enable teaching and listening to continue throughout the display period. Our picture gallery exemplifies there fine achievements.
P.S. Blick Art Supplies provided the tape, foam board and cutting tools. Mailing tube column supports were provided by Mr. G.”
With gratitude,
Teacher Gruenfelder
R. Buckminster Fuller, Inventor, Architect, Dreamer
Funded Jan 4, 2012This has been a fantastic experience! First, students designed and constructed geodesic dome models. Coincidentally, the small scale models fit onto student heads; therefore, they have been having fun modeling their "hats" for teachers and administrators around campus. Good PR for this project! Second, classroom measurements were taken and mathematical formulas were created to calculate the full-size pieces.
Now ready to begin the layout portion of the project, the six periods of 9-12 graders established one or two project managers for the entire construction process. Next, students utilized the small scale models to establish a blueprint for number of pieces and apertures or openings in the construct to allow light and passage through the projects. The geodesic dome models were mounted on top of the classroom computers. Now, they had a construction plan! Large scale pieces were cut from the Donors Choose foam board. Pieces were taped together with masking tape. Once they had all their pieces cut, they went into the hallway and assembled the structure in two half sections. Students then carried their sectioned projects into the classroom and assembled the final result. Thanks, again, to the donors who made this possible. ”
With gratitude,
Teacher Gruenfelder
This classroom project was brought to life by Wasserman Foundation and 14 other donors.