2024 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

In this work, we describe a project involving a link element design for
a landing gear mechanism as part of our Statics and Mechanics of Materials I course. During this
project, students are asked to design a safe and lightweight linkage that will allow the landing gear
to safely and slowly retract from a vertical position to a nearly horizontal one without breaking or
stretching more than 10% of its original length. This project is introduced at the halfway point of
the 10-week term, at which point students are familiar with the 2D equilibrium of rigid bodies and
the concepts of stress, strain, and the factor of safety. General geometry and dimensions of the
testing apparatus are provided to the students along with experimental properties of Nylon 6/6,
from which the linkages are laser cut. Student groups are expected to produce a CAD file of their
design along with a detailed memo documenting their analysis and design process. In this paper,
we will present technical details about the project along with the different approaches each
instructor takes in presenting, conducting, and assessing the project in their class. We will also
discuss the challenges faced by the instructors and students and present detailed student and
instructor feedback on the effectiveness of this design project in enhancing student learning.