Team Members:
Jennifer Yu, Katie Jarvis, Anne Traczyk, Charlie Herman
Sponsor: Calvin Uzelmeier
Project Manager: Christopher Muir
Check out our presentation for a detailed overview! Presentation Video Link
Problem Statement:
Adults who take children ages 5 to 15 to visit the RMSC expect the museum to teach both them and their children about science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) concepts in the world around them in a way that is intuitive as well as engaging to both the child and adult. In a broader scheme, the education of children in these STEM concepts will help in preparing the child for adult life and contribute to the furthering of society as a whole. One topic that few people understand is wireless charging.
Abstract:
Inspired by the increasing presence of modern technology in everyday life, this project was developed as part of a contemporary technology exhibit. The final concept focused on demonstrating the principles of wireless charging, making it a suitable addition to the How Things Work exhibit currently housed at the Rochester Museum & Science Center (RMSC). Electricity is generated when the coils are brought closer together. In real wireless charging, this happens due to a current induced in the receiving coil. In our exhibit, an ultrasonic distance sensor is used to produce the same effect. This board then illuminates a set of lights, visually representing the wireless transfer of energy. The interaction between the two induction coils is key: when brought closer together, the magnetic field felt by the receiving coil is intensified, successfully powering the lights; when moved farther apart, the perceived field weakens, and the lights turn off. This hands-on demonstration is designed to be educational and engaging for children aged 5 to 15, as well as their guardians, helping them better understand the basic concept of wireless energy transfer.