How to Build a Mouse Trap Car

People make mouse trap cars for many different purposes. In school for instance, teachers can use this particular task to challenge their students especially in the field of physical science. By learning how to build a mouse trap car, these kids can enhance their cooperative behavior, improve spatial awareness and strengthen their skills in problem solving.

Materials Needed

When learning how to build a mouse trap car, several important materials are needed to complete this task. These include screws for connecting one important part to another. Likewise, bring in a lightweight wood, eyehooks and a mousetrap. Furthermore, get a string, metal rods and a rubber material. Lastly, get a foam board or a number of used compact discs.

Steps

Do the chassis first. This will act as a platform and base for the mousetrap. It will also hold other important parts such as gearing mechanisms and wheels. Be sure to use only wood that is light in weight because heavier materials can consequently slow down the movement as well as speed of the mouse trap car. For the axle carriers, the use of eyehooks is just right for the job.

Take the chassis and then put the mousetrap on top of it. The base of the mousetrap as well as the chassis must have pre-drilled holes. Put the screws inside these holes and then connect the two important parts together. The mousetrap’s spring mechanism will give the car its much needed power later on.

Make sure that the wheels are made of lightweight materials just like the body. For these, possible options include used compact discs or foam board. Both of these materials are obviously lightweight. As tread, use any rubber material like balloons or rubber bands. The wheels must be in proportion to the size of the axles.

Put the axles and wheels. As axles, the available materials include metal rods, plastic or wooden dowels. In this particular step, balance and straightness is very important. These two important factors are very important to the overall success of the project. Install the drive string by connecting it to the mousetrap. After this, set the trap in lock position. Use the drive axle to wind the string. Let the car go by setting the trap off. See how fast and how far your car can go and enjoy.

Additional Tips and Other Valuable Information

In order to maximize the farthest distance possible, it is best to use lightweight materials in making this project. Use the mousetrap with extreme caution. Even one wrong move can hurt a lot or even result in a broken finger or hand part.