Design Challenge: "The Pullman Corliss-Goldberg Machine"

Objective: Design and construct a Rube Goldberg-style machine that demonstrates key principles of the Corliss steam engine, while also paying homage to the historical and industrial legacy of the Pullman National Historical Park.

Target Audience: High school students (grades 9-12) 

Materials Required: A variety of materials like cardboard, wooden dowels, string, rubber bands, small electric motors (optional), gears, pulleys, weights, marbles, dominoes, etc. Recycled materials and simple electronic components are also encouraged.

Challenge Structure:

• Research and Understanding:
  • Begin with an in-depth study of the Corliss steam engine, focusing on its unique features such as separate steam admission and exhaust valves, the use of a wrist plate to control valve movements, and the efficiency improvements it offered over earlier steam engines.
  • Understand the role of the Corliss engine in the industrial history, particularly its use in manufacturing and its showcase at the 1876 Centennial Exposition.
  • Study the basics of Rube Goldberg machines, emphasizing the concept of chain reactions and the inventive use of everyday objects.
• Designing the Machine:
  • Teams should design a machine that reflects the mechanics of the Corliss engine. For example, incorporate elements that simulate the operation of separate valves or the rotational motion converted from linear piston movement.
  • The end goal of the machine should be simple (like turning a page, watering a plant), but the process to achieve this should be intricate and involve multiple steps, embodying the essence of a Rube Goldberg machine.
• Construction Phase:
  • Utilize the drafted designs to build the machine. Encourage creative problem-solving and the innovative use of materials to replicate aspects of the Corliss engine.
  • Safety considerations should be paramount during construction.
• Presentation and Evaluation:
  • Each team will present their machine, focusing on how it mimics the Corliss engine's functionality and the historical significance of their design.
  • The machines will be evaluated for their creativity, mechanical accuracy in representing the Corliss engine, functionality, and the team's ability to work collaboratively and problem-solve.
• Reflection and Learning:
  • Encourage students to reflect on their learning experience, focusing on the integration of historical knowledge with engineering and design skills.

Judging Criteria:

• Historical and scientific accuracy in representing the Corliss steam engine.
• Complexity and creativity of the machine's design.
• Successful execution of the final task.
• Team collaboration and problem-solving skills.
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