A goldberg machine is complex series of chain reactions set up to perform one simple task, usually resulting in amusing outcomes. For example, to turn on a light, one may push a ball which knocks over a set of domino blocks, that last of which falls on a switch causing a projectile to fire at the switch, causing the light to turn on. Phew that was tiring - but isn't this a cool alternative to mundane option of standing up and flicking the switch with your finger?
Goldberg Scholastics is a competition hosted by the Society of Manufacturing Engineers in De Lasalle University aimed at bringing out students' creative thinking in the aspect of engineering design. In the process of developing their own Rube Goldberg Machine, it is also hoped that the students gain interest in taking an engineering course in the future.
In 2009, a pilot competition was held between a few groups of high school students. These students rose to the challenge admirably. This year, SME intends to reach further and initiate a national competition.
Hark! The first competition is less than a week away! Some reminders before the competition:
On February 7, 2009, 7 schools rose up to SME's challenge to build the most convoluted yet impressive rube goldberg machine:
