Parabola Generator

thingiverse

This tool allows teachers to create a relatable example for parabolas. Simply attach a small clear container (with a little water in it) to the spin platform with some glue or double sided tape, and have a student spin the crank. The centrifugal force and the capillary effect along with surface tension will make a parabola of different sizes in the water, depending on how fast you spin it. This can be used for both math and science lessons. The gears and base platform should be printed face down, so the gear bearings and the drive gears can print with minimal support. Items should be scaled to fit the printer that you have.