How To Make A Crane For A School Project

Making a crane for a school project is a great way to learn about simple machines, engineering, and balance. A model crane can be built with basic materials and teaches how real cranes lift and move heavy loads using pulleys and levers. Here’s how to make a crane for school project.

1. Gather Your Materials
   You’ll need cardboard, wooden sticks or skewers, a thread spool or small pulley, string, glue or a glue gun, scissors, tape, a small plastic container or paper cup (for lifting), and a weight (like washers or coins). You can also use a small motor if you’re adding movement.
2. Build the Base
   Cut a sturdy piece of cardboard to act as the base of your crane. Make it large enough to support the vertical arm so the crane doesn’t tip over. You can glue extra cardboard underneath to add strength.
3. Make the Vertical Arm (Mast)
   Take a wooden stick or rolled-up cardboard tube and attach it upright to the base using glue and tape. This is the main support. Reinforce the bottom so it stands firmly.
4. Create the Boom (Horizontal Arm)
   Attach another stick or cardboard strip horizontally near the top of the mast. This is the part that reaches out and carries the load. Angle it slightly upward and tape it tightly to the vertical mast.
5. Add the Pulley System
   At the end of the horizontal boom, attach a spool, bead, or small pulley wheel. Thread a string over this pulley. One end of the string will hang down to carry the load, and the other end will be for pulling or winding.
6. Create the Lifting Mechanism
   Attach a plastic container or cup to the hanging end of the string. This will act as the crane’s hook to hold the load. Tie it securely so it doesn’t fall off during lifting.
7. Add a Winding System (Optional)
   If you want to raise and lower the hook, attach a straw or pencil horizontally at the back and wrap the loose end of the string around it. Turn it like a handle to wind or unwind the string.
8. Test Your Crane
   Place a small object in the cup and use the string to lift it. Make sure the crane stands steady and the pulley moves smoothly. Adjust the parts if needed to improve balance or movement.

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