IB design students construct original projects

Sydney Butler, Staff Reporter
April 4, 2011
Filed under Student Life

Lilly Beckwith made an electric skateboard for her IB design project. She was surprised at the amount of work it entailed.

IB Design projects for engineering class were due March 18. Students designed and created a unique project of their choice. This is one of the biggest projects of the year for the class of engineering students.

Students have incorporated a vast range of ideas in their projects. Senior Lilly Beckwith decided to build an electric skateboard. “I wanted a faster way of transportation. I also wanted to challenge myself by doing a project that involved electrical, mechanical and wood work,” said Beckwith.

With the difficult task of building an electric skateboard, Beckwith faced various complicated tasks. “I had a lot of trouble finding batteries for the motor. I [also] had to figure out how [to make] my electrical circuit. My most difficult task was probably the wheel,” said Beckwith.

The IB Design project requirements include brainstorming, coming up with a unique original project, designing that project and finally building it. For many students the IB Design project is a way of making something practical. Senior Luis Torres designed his project for his friend. “My friend told me he needed a place to put his weight plates, so for my IB Design project, I built a weight stand,” said Torres.

Torres’s project was also challenging in several ways. “The most difficult part was making the arms for the weight, but the hardest part was chiseling there was a lot of chiseling,” he said.

Students who take on the IB Design course also face the challenge of paying for their project materials. Although the school provides some funds, they typically end up spending their own money. “I had to pay for the engine and the batteries, which were about $150 bucks,” said Beckwith.

The IB Design project is a long process. Beckwith said, “Every time I thought I was one step ahead, I was two steps behind. The design process is repetitive and requires a lot of patience.”

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