Extreme Kicking Machine

In this design challenge activity follow up to "Kicking Machine", learners add a hands-free feature to their Kicking Machine. Learners modify their kicking machine to have it either release the pendulum or rubber band while standing three feet away or have it automatically feed balls into the kicking machine, one after another. They must figure out how to integrate the new feature into the existing structure and use the design process to make sure the modified kicking machine works properly. Educators can use this activity to demonstrate simple machines and kinetic/potential energy.