RUBE GOLDBERG REFLECTION Gonçalves 1

Rube Goldberg Reflection

Inez Gonçalves

Grade 11 PRE-AP Physics SPH3UE_2023

Mr. McCormack

16 January 2024
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1. Introduction

This project, spanning a duration of approximately three months, was centered on the

conceptualization and construction of a Rube Goldberg machine—a complex contraption

designed with the explicit objective of “[solving] a simple problem in the most ridiculous (Rube

Goldberg: Artist, Inventor, Adjective, n.d.). Within a Rube Goldberg machine, the execution of a

relatively simple task, such as activating a light switch or toasting a slice of bread, is achieved

through a chain reaction involving multiple steps that are often repurposed from everyday

objects. Designing a Rube Goldberg machine requires the application of not only creative and

critical thinking skills but also scientific and mathematical principles. For instance, it is

imperative to take into account physics concepts related to the transfer of energy, as every

component of the machine relies on the predictable behavior of objects in motion. The goal of

this project was to activate a source of electricity (i.e., a light switch) through a minimum of 12

steps, with each individual step involving a change in the energy form being used. Concerning

constraints—which all design projects possess—the biggest limitation stemmed from the

deadline. Despite granting ourselves enough time to complete the project, the deadline limited

the time available for exploration and experimentation, potentially compromising the end

product’s quality.

2. How it Works - Step Breakdown

1. A chemical reaction initiates the displacement of a steel marble. → Chemical

Energy

2. The steel marble subsequently topples a set of dominoes. → Potential Energy -

Kinetic Energy

3. The dominoes, in turn, release a steel marble into a gutter, setting in motion the

rotation of a spoon. → Potential Energy - Kinetic Energy

4. As the spoon rotates, it causes a second set of dominoes to topple. → Potential

Energy - Kinetic Energy

5. The displaced dominoes set another steel marble in motion. → Potential Energy -

Kinetic Energy
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6. The steel marble experiences a force of attraction when it comes in contact with a

magnet with two marbles affixed to it. The resulting speed of the first marble

propels the launch of the second marble. → Magnetic Energy - Kinetic Energy

7. The steel marble then descends down a set of steps and enters a screw.

8. Upon exiting the screw, the steel marbles descended into a weighted box,

triggering the movement of a rotating hammer. → Potential Energy - Kinetic

Energy

9. The hammer falls onto a car launcher, propelling a toy car that, in turn, pushes a

weight into a pulley. → Potential Energy - Kinetic Energy

10. As the right side of the pulley descends, the left side rises, activating the rotation

of a platform to an inclined position. → Potential Energy - Kinetic Energy

11. This inclined plane releases a car, prompting it to roll down a ramp and topple the

final set of dominoes. → Potential Energy - Kinetic Energy

12. This set of dominoes, once toppled, displaces a steel marble. → Potential Energy

- Kinetic Energy

13. The marble rolls down a successive sequence of ramps, eventually existing and

descending onto an inclined plane. → Potential Energy - Kinetic Energy

14. As it descends the inclined plane, the marble strikes a magnet with more marbles

attached to it. The force of attraction between the marbles and magnets propels

the final marble in the set. → Magnetic Energy - Kinetic Energy

15. This last marble, impacts a piece of wood, activating a light switch. → Potential

Energy - Kinetic Energy

3. Role

In the context of this project, I assumed a role similar to that of a creative director,

leveraging my extensive experience in design and fine arts. This involved not only envisioning

the overarching theme and layout but also undertaking the time-consuming task of painting the

entire board. This intricate process demanded multiple layers of paint and a keen attention to

detail to achieve impeccably clean lines.

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The board resided at my house, and while Clare and I worked together on construction, in

her absence, I dedicated myself to refining various aspects of the project and advancing its

construction. Additionally, as the deadline loomed, the responsibility of ensuring the

functionality of every component fell on my shoulders. This required an intense night of testing,

which spanned five hours from 8:45 PM to 11:45 PM. Regrettably, Clare couldn’t partake in the

testing due to her running practice. Nevertheless, this challenging phase allowed me to fine-tune

the project, address any potential issues, and ultimately ensure its “flawless” presentation.

4. Design Process

The design process itself can be divided into three separate phases: conceptualization,

construction and testing, and refinement. In the initial phase, collaboration amongst Clare, Steph,

and myself resulted in the combination of our individual ‘Rube Mini’ plans, yielding over 30

potential steps for our final model, which was narrowed down to 13 finalized steps. Following

this, as there was an emphasis on a theme-based design, we engaged in a brainstorming session,

ultimately choosing a “vintage pinball machine” theme. As the designated “creative director,”

my responsibility was envisioning how to effectively communicate said theme. Given the

thematic nature of vintage pinball machines, I opted to lean towards a retro-futuristic aesthetic,

drawing inspiration from sources such as The Jetsons and Walt Disney’s ‘Tomorrowland.’

The pivotal stage in conceptualization focused on creating a layout for the steps. This

involved estimating the dimensions of all components and predicting their positions.

Subsequently, we procured the necessary materials, and Clare and I took on the task of

assembling the final model since Steph couldn’t join us. The construction process commenced by

piecing together individual steps, such as the spoon-lever contraption near the start. Once these

steps were assembled, the entire backboard underwent an extensive painting process, with

multiple layers applied for a polished appearance. Clare and I’s collaborative efforts mainly

centered on spray painting and affixing repurposed Jenga blocks, “carefully” arranging them so

that they performed in the desired manner. During this construction process, errors surfaced,

leading to independent refinements on my part, which will be elaborated upon later. This process

was additionally time-intensive, with the completion of certain steps being dependent on the

precision and effectiveness of the preceding ones.

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Continuous refinement occurred throughout the entire construction process and extended

into the final testing stage. A notable adjustment involved modifying the slope of an inclined

plane to prevent the steel marble from projecting and skipping a step due to a steep inclination.

Various supports were also strategically added to address issues, such as reinforcing the screw to

fix areas affected by planar distortion. These refinements went beyond functional aspects and

included cosmetic touch-ups. For instance, the backboard’s paint job had to be redone as various

sections required sanding after previously glued-on blocks were removed.

5. Challenges & Successes

Throughout the course of this project, we encountered various challenges that

necessitated thoughtful problem-solving. For instance, there were many difficulties that emerged

during the design phase, requiring us to rethink and refine our ideas. Case in point: one of the

initial steps involved a complex marble run with magnets, which, upon further consideration,

proved to be overly ambitious and impractical for replication on the board. Similarly, a screw at

the board’s bottom was replaced with successive ramps due to time constraints. Additionally,

there were issues related to the construction process that needed to be addressed. As mentioned

earlier, there were instances where incline planes proved too steep, necessitating their removal

and reattachment. This process was particularly challenging as the steps were affixed with wood

glue, a rather durable adhesive. Finally, upon reaching the final testing stage, the dominoes were

an annoyance. Their placement had to be methodical, avoiding proximity to the board’s edge to

prevent friction-related issues that hindered their fall. Additionally, careful consideration was

required to ensure they toppled forward instead of backward when triggered. Despite these

varying challenges, the project yielded numerous successes. Rigorous testing played a crucial

role in ensuring that most steps operated as predicted. For example, the proper distribution of the

marble’s weight in the chemical reaction and the strategic position of any pivots away from the

board’s wall were critical for optimal functionality. These essential nuances were only uncovered

through extensive testing performed by myself (with the assistance of my father).

6. Collaboration and Communication

In terms of collaboration and communication, Clare, Steph, and I flawlessly worked

together. Whenever I had inquiries or needed assistance from either of them, their responsiveness
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was reliable and timely. Both Clare and Steph fulfilled their assigned duties with diligence, and

we engaged in a dynamic exchange of ideas throughout this project. If there is one complaint to

note, it would be Steph’s absence during the construction phase. However, this was the result of

specific circumstances, and Steph compensated for it by contributing significantly to the project

through website creation, log documentation, and lending assistance whenever possible.

Although an additional pair of hands during construction would have undoubtedly streamlined

the process and alleviated stress, Clare and I managed to adapt and overcome the challenges at

hand. Essentially, in spite of this project being lengthy and arduous, tensions did not arise; rather,

we supported and uplifted each other.

7. Lessons Learned

This assignment has provided me with a multifaceted learning experience, with a key

takeaway centered around the significance of setting realistic expectations. My inherent ambition

drove me to initially outline steps of a similar nature, only to realize that practical goals were

required—especially given the deadline. Additionally, as I worked on the project, I grasped the

necessity of flexibility. Design projects evolve constantly, requiring adaptation to changing

requirements, feedback, and unexpected problems. The ability to readjust one’s approach and

solutions was identified as a crucial quality. Furthermore, this assignment explored the

complexities of motion, revealing insights into issues like weight and distance, especially in the

context of the chemical reaction step and the dominoes. In essence, this project underscored the

importance of balance, adaptability, and a nuanced understanding of the variables influencing

design outcomes.

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, throughout the course of this project, I gained valuable insights into the

intricacies of the design process. Notably, I have honed my ability to effectively translate a vision

into reality. I additionally developed a greater concern for the quality of the work I produced,

paying close attention to detail throughout. As someone who aspires to pursue a career centered

around design, these skills and mindsets are pivotal. Furthermore, this project has significantly

enhanced my time management skills. I became adept at prioritizing tasks, ensuring not only
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their timely completion but also that the high standards set by my group were met. In terms of

workload distribution and collaboration, I took on a substantial responsibility, particularly

focusing on the details and functionality of the physical Rube Goldberg itself. Ultimately,

regardless of whether the Rube Goldberg operates flawlessly, I am proud of the accomplishments

achieved with my group. The work done on this project, which was physically and mentally

demanding at times, stands as a testament to my group's dedication and collaborative efforts.

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References

Rube Goldberg: artist, inventor, adjective. (n.d.). The Rube Goldberg Institute.

https://www.rubegoldberg.org/all-about-rube/a-cultural-icon/