1. Main Frame: Use cardboard, foam board, or thin plywood to construct the main frame of the vehicle. Cut out the pieces and assemble them using glue or double-sided tape.
2. Windmill or Propeller: Cut out several identical triangular or rectangular shapes from cardstock or thin plastic sheets. Attach these blades to a central axle made from a wooden dowel or thin metal rod.
3. Axle Holders and Bearings: Secure the axle to the frame using two sturdy holders made from small blocks of wood or plastic. Insert ball bearings or wooden beads into the holders to reduce friction and allow the axle to rotate smoothly.
4. Front and Rear Wheels: Cut out four circular wheels from cardboard or thin plastic. Insert metal, wooden, or plastic rods through the centers of the wheels to act as axles. Attach these axles to the front and rear of the vehicle's frame.
5. Mounting Mechanism: Attach a small spring or rubber band to the main frame, close to the rear axle. This will help the vehicle tilt slightly forward, keeping the wheels in contact with the ground and allowing the propeller to face the wind.
6. Sail or Wind Catcher: Create a sail or wind catcher using a lightweight fabric, paper, or plastic sheet. Attach it to the front of the vehicle, ensuring that it catches the air and propels the vehicle forward.
7. Decoration: Add any desired decorations or markings to your vehicle, such as logos, stickers, or drawings.
8. Wind Source: Place a small desk fan or hairdryer at one side of the room and turn it on. This will create a steady stream of air for your wind-powered vehicle to move against.
You can experiment with different designs, materials, and angles of the propeller or sail to optimize the performance and speed of your wind-powered vehicle.
