The Pinewood Derby (linked) is an elegantly simple race contest in which Scouts make little gravity powered cars using a standard kit. There are weight constraints. Elements not in the kit (except for decorative elements) are prohibited. Most modifications have to do with maximizing weight (and so potential gravitational energy) and minimizing wheel friction.

How to win using unorthodox methods, but stay within the rules? I propose a Pinewood Derby car might be built in the form of a very tall tower with a pyramidal base. Three wheels are at the base with the fourth at the tower tip. This car towers over its competitors. After rolling down the initial slope, it topples forwards onto the track but continues to roll. The three wheels minimize initial friction down the track (as compared to four) and the fall forwards puts the nose ahead of competitors and so across the finish line first.

Originally posted at www.halfbakery.com —

bungston, Jun 25 2010