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Today, our students embarked on an innovative design journey by testing vacuum forming as a technique to create prototype models for their electronic skateboard designs. This hands-on activity was a great learning experience that combined creativity, engineering principles, and practical skills.

In class, students listed the materials needed and outlined the methods to be used in the vacuum forming process. Through this exercise, they learned to evaluate their work critically and came away with key insights:

• Adhesive Application: Students observed that a sufficient amount of glue is essential for the layers to adhere properly. Without enough glue, the layers tended to separate.
• Material Alignment: The veneer boards were not always uniform in size, which required careful planning and precise alignment to ensure a cohesive final product.
• Vacuuming: As they vacuumed the air out of the bags, students found it increasingly challenging to remove all the air, using a hand pump also allowed them to make sure the veneer was sealed tightly to the mould.

Students will wait seven days for the boards to set. Once set, they will proceed to shape the boards and install the electronic batteries and other skateboard components. The final phase will involve testing the skateboards for acceleration rate, battery endurance, and overall board strength.