Join me on an incredible journey as we delve into the world of engineering to create the world’s smallest Nerf gun. From tackling the challenges of scaling down to exploring the possibilities of DNA origami, this video takes you through multiple breakthroughs in the field. Get ready to discover the fascinating process of shrinking a Nerf gun by a factor of ten not just once, but multiple times, ultimately reaching a size so minuscule that it can fit millions of guns in a single drop of liquid.
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The Initial Objective: Shrinking the Nerf Gun
To kick off this incredible journey, the goal was set to create the world’s smallest Nerf gun. However, achieving this feat was not as simple as it sounds. The process involved shrinking the gun by a factor of ten at each stage, resulting in a gun so tiny that it could fit five of them across the width of a human hair.
Overcoming Challenges through Engineering
The first major challenge encountered was the complexity of assembling the tiny mechanical springs and hinges that make up a standard Nerf gun. To solve this, the team had to find a way to make the entire gun out of just a single part with no springs, leading them to the field of compliant mechanisms. By leveraging compliant mechanisms, which rely on flexible materials and clever designs, they were able to eliminate the need for multiple parts and achieve the desired functionality.
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Collaboration with BYU and the Compliant Mechanisms Research Group
The journey took the creator back to his alma mater, BYU, where he collaborated with professors and students from the BYU Compliant Mechanisms Research Group. Together, they explored designs and prototypes, eventually settling on a template design that could be scaled down without compromising functionality. The use of compliant mechanisms provided numerous advantages, including fewer parts, lower cost, and built-in springs.
Harnessing the Power of DNA Origami
As the team pushed the boundaries of miniaturization, they turned to DNA origami to achieve even smaller sizes. Using DNA itself as a building material, they created tiny structures by folding DNA strands according to specific blueprints. This technique allowed them to create the world’s smallest Nerf guns using just a few thousand atoms.
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Exploring the Potential of DNA Origami
The applications of DNA origami go beyond creating tiny Nerf guns. By leveraging this technology, researchers can potentially develop targeted treatments for various diseases. The ability to deliver specific DNA to cells opens up new possibilities for personalized medicine.
Inspiration for Future Breakthroughs
This journey serves as a reminder of the incredible work being done by engineers and scientists worldwide. Their dedication to pushing the boundaries of what is possible inspires hope for the future. From developing innovative solutions to tackling complex problems, these individuals are shaping a better tomorrow.
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Join the Engineering Adventure with CrunchLabs
If you’re intrigued by the world of engineering and want to learn to think like an engineer, CrunchLabs offers a unique opportunity. Their Build Boxes provide hands-on experience, allowing you to build and understand the physics behind various toys and gadgets. By engaging in these activities, you can boost your creative confidence and gain valuable knowledge while having a blast!
Unlocking the Power of Learning with CrunchLabs
With the holidays approaching, consider gifting your favorite young person a CrunchLabs Build Box. This investment in their future will not only provide countless hours of fun but also help them develop important skills for the future. Plus, you never know, you might just find yourself the lucky winner of a platinum ticket, granting you a chance to design alongside the CrunchLabs team!
A Glimpse into the Future
As we conclude this incredible engineering journey, we are left with a sense of awe at the possibilities that lie ahead. The world’s smallest Nerf gun may be a small achievement in itself, but it represents the groundbreaking work happening across countless labs worldwide. The creativity, passion, and determination of these engineers and scientists give us hope for a brighter future where challenges are met with innovative solutions.