Instant Challenge - Ship the Chip

Today we participated in an Instant Challenge called "Ship the Chip". The objective of this challenge was to create a packaging for a Dorito/Pringle that would prevent the chip from cracking. We were given a time limit and material limit. After we created the packaging, we would mail the chip in the envelope. Before we began the actual construction, we created a free-hand sketch of our design. Our idea was that we would first support the chip using popsicle sticks, then we would use pipe cleaners to secure the popsicle sticks in place. The pipe cleaners would also cushion the structure from movement within the envelope.

Sketch of "Ship the Chip" structure

As mentioned above, we used pipe cleaners and miniature popsicle sticks to make our structure. We were given a budget of $100 (yes, of course, real cash). See the link to our Design Brief for the purchase list.

My partner starting the structure

It was very difficult to get the chip into our structure without having it crack completely. If you look closely, you will notice how we chose a chip that was relatively deformed. We were able to chose our chips, which was helpful; I figured that if the chip was folded over, it would be more immune to breakage. 

Me working on structure