Mechanical Engineering Batmen Camp

Mechanical Engineering Batmen Camp
Photo by Megan Bean

June 9, 2011

Lee Arthur, 13, of Brandon Middle School, is one of 23 7th - 9th grade boys enrolled in Batmen Camp. Batmen stands for Become A Teen Mechanical ENgineer. Arthur works to perfect the design of his homopolar motor, which is comprised of a neodymium magnet, AA battery, washer, and copper wire. Upon completion, the wire spins around. Campers learn about different aspects of mechanical engineering and also work on a rocket project. The boys are given the fictitious assignment of building a rocket for NASA with a $1 million budget. They "buy" materials like soda bottles, rubber bands, and decorative items to build a functioning rocket while staying on budget.