2016 - 2017 Research and Development Projects

In CTE Design Technology —a STEM program—students learn about product development, engineering principles, and manufacturing processes with state‐of‐the art software (such as AutoCAD, Inventor, Solid‐Works, MasterCam, and others) and equipment (such as 3‐D printing, Advanced Laser Cutting Technology, CNC plasma cutter, HAAS CNC mill, HAAS CNC lathe, and many others). Senior R&D students are all involved in senior capstone projects that apply the knowledge and skills they have developed in relevant, engaging project‐based learning.
Video developed by Zach Reiss
Video developed by Nick Marzec

Monster Truck Challenge

Student design and build a Monster Truck with full articulating suspension and drive train for an all wheel drive vehicle that is able to overcome various terrain obstacles.  During their participation and the development of this project students work with tools to process materials and assemble a product while incorporating design and engineering techniques.  Students learn problem solving techniques, better understand Newton's Law of Motion and the characteristics of electrical circuits. During the research process students develop plans and understand the concepts of a Monster Truck Suspension while applying the mathematical calculations and measurements to build their truck.

Learning Objectives
In the participation and the development of this project students will:
  • Work with tools to process materials and assemble a product
  • Incorporate design and engineering techniques
  • Incorporate problem solving techniques
  • Better understand Newton’s Laws of Motion
  • Better understand the characteristics of electric circuits
  • Understand the characteristic of a Monster Truck Suspension
  • Apply mathematical calculations and measurements
  • Work individually and cooperatively