Design Challenges

STEM activities for curious families and classrooms

Technovation Families' free design challenges explore a range of science, technology, and engineering topics through fun, hands-on activities that promote creativity and problem-solving to find unique solutions.

Learn from the scientists and engineers who are creating the technologies of tomorrow, and use what you learn to build your own invention!

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All Design Challenges

Engineer an Ocean Bottom Sampler

Engineer an Ocean Bottom Sampler

Design a tool that can lift objects from a water depth of at least 1 foot.

Engineer a Balloon Helicopter

Engineer a Balloon Helicopter

Build a balloon helicopter that can fly at least 3 feet from the ground.

Make a Mechanical Leg

Make a Mechanical Leg

Make a ball and socket joint that mimics the movement of a human hip or shoulder.

Camouflage an Animal

Camouflage an Animal

Camouflage an animal in any environment so that you can’t see it – even in plain sight.

Build a Cam Mechanism

Build a Cam Mechanism

Create a simple machine that transfers a rotational motion into a linear vertical motion.

Create a Circuit to Light an LED

Create a Circuit to Light an LED

Build a simple circuit that enables you to turn on a small LED.

Build a Hydroelectric Waterwheel

Build a Hydroelectric Waterwheel

Design a waterwheel that can generate electricity from the flow of water.

Generate Electricity to Light Up an LED

Generate Electricity to Light Up an LED

Design and build a simple generator that turns on a small LED light for at least 1 minute without using a battery.

Build a Joint Mechanism

Build a Joint Mechanism

Turn a straw into a simple machine that works in the same way that the joints in your body work.

Are you ready to change the world?

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