Experimento Prototype #4

In our Prototype #4 of the Experimento we enhanced our base's design and material usage, instead of using cardboard which is flammable or plastic which easily melts, we used a pure aluminum base and aluminum coatings for the other bases. Unfortunately, we were not able to test our Prototype #4 since it was raining (tropical country = a lot of rain) outside.

Reflection Questions ༼ つ ◕_◕ ༽つ༼ つ ◕_◕ ༽つ༼ つ ◕_◕ ༽つ How did I help to move this project forward for this particular step?Pietro: I brought in the materials and had the main idea of coating the bases in aluminium in order to protect it them from the flames. I also was the one who had the idea of stringing the base to the bag with COPPER wire instead of thread because it doesn't burn.2) What insights or insightful questions did this step in the project uncover or generate?4) State and describe one action that I could improve upon to help my team and make my final product the best that it can be?Pietro can focus outside of our meetings (alone) on perfecting the base so that next time we test our prototype we won't need to spend time focusing on something we have already decided upon. Shin can find and buy the proper balloon materials and find the right heat source to light the balloon up.5) How often are you meeting and will it be enough to make progress until the next deadline.


Shin: I was to one who built the bases and the one who had the idea to coat three different types of bases so that we would have access to different weights of bases in case we need a heavier or lighter base. I also decided where to place the base (right on the bag's opening) so that the fire would be most effective.

The first question in our minds is if this prototype will work because we haven't had the opportunity to test it yet. The second question that came up is about the "balloon" being use: what is the appropriate material/size for an effective and lasting flight? This second question can be the key to success in the Experimento.
3) What is my role on this team up for this step in the project?
Pietro: For the next step of our Experimento I will decide on a definite base and finalize anything base-related so that we may focus on the balloon.Shin: For the next step of the Experimento I will find out and bring the proper material for the balloon and will make or bring the proper torch



We meet once to twice a week now and I believe that it is more than enough for us to make a final design in the next deadline and make it fly in the end.
6) What is working well with this prototype? What can be improved upon? How will you improve upon it?
The base is working very well it seems because it is easily usable and versatile and it seems to be sturdy and resistant. The balloon has yet to be improved but the binding materials for the pieces of the balloon seem to be trustworthy and resistant. The balloon needs to be improved on and it will be through the use of a new materials which is lighter and proper for a hot air balloon.

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