RocketMIP: Mobile Inverted Pendulum

Abstract

Increasing interest and awareness of STEM through accessible and interactive projects could increase the number of students choosing a career in a STEM field. Our objective is to develop a low priced interactive educational kit in the form of a Mobile Inverted Pendulum (MIP), dubbed the RocketMIP, which can be manufactured, assembled, and operated by a student with access to a 3D printer and can be completed for a price of $100. This kit will motivate and educate high schoolers about the basics of 3D printing, mechanical and electrical assembly, and mechatronics, expanding their knowledge on topics not normally discussed until college.