Kick-In
After the summer break was over, it was time for the Kick-in again! During this introduction period, there are three days which are reserved to be organized by study associations. During these days, the new students got to know their study association, while also participating in some mechanical engineering related activities.
On the first day, the students followed several workshops, and got to meet their project group. After this a scavenger hunt was held, where the students could score points by doing several assignments around the campus and in the city center. These assignments ranged from collecting certain items, to do some weird stunts.
The second day started of at the WOT terrain, a working place close to the Horst. The large field here was perfect for all the new mechanical engineering students to start on their first project. They were assigned with building a catapult, while only be able to use wood, bikes, nails and duct tape. This proved to be more than enough materials to build a catapult out of, as some nice contraptions were built. The goal of the catapult was to throw an apple as far as possible. There were three main design types that stood out. One was a traditional slingshot, the second a trebuchet, and the third a system with two spinning wheels that would catch the apple in between the wheels and fling it forward. In the end the trebuchet proved to be the best option, as one was able to throw an apple all the way into the pond behind the Horst.
After testing the catapults, they were unfortunately broken down, as the wood had to be used for the next project. The groups had to make beverage trays that could be used at the barbecue that would take place afterwards. Some very creative trays were made, such as a bike wheel with holders that could be worn like a hoolahoop.
On the final day, the students followed a lecture where they were quickly taught how a strong truss system works. They could immediately put their newly acquired knowledge to the test, as their final assignment was to built a crane. They were challenged to hold a full beer keg as well as an empty one, and many of the cranes actually managed this. Unfortunately none were able to withstand a hammer strike by one of the board members.
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