The Badge Archive

Alter and Re-Test Emergency Vehicles

Fulfills Step 4 of GSUSA Brownie Automotive Engineering badge requirements.

Items Needed

  • 1 regular ramp for movement tests (plain surface, no obstacles)
  • 1 testing ramp and obstacle pan for extreme weather conditions
  • Vehicle materials for repairs and modifications:
    • Extra bodies, wheels, straws, dowels/skewers
    • Thin cardboard or cardstock for reinforcing structures
    • Modeling clay, rubber bands, sponges, or hot glue to adjust wheels and axles
    • Duct tape, glue, markers, scissors
  • Scouts’ recorded test results from previous trials
  • (Optional Material) Cell phone(s) to record tests
  • (Optional Material) Hair dryer or electric fan to simulate high winds
  • (Optional Material) Shoe or block to simulate falling debris
  • (Optional Material) Volunteers to assist at testing stations

Instructions (Estimated Total Time: 45–50 minutes):

  1. Step 1: Review Test Results & Identify Issues (10 minutes)
    • Scouts look at their previous test results and identify what worked and what needs improvement.
    • Consider questions like:
      • Did the vehicle roll straight or veer off course?
      • Did parts stay secure, or did anything fall off?
      • Did the vehicle move effectively in its extreme weather condition?
    • Scouts discuss their observations with teammates and suggest changes.
  2. Step 2: Improve Vehicle Design (15 minutes)
    • Scouts modify their vehicles based on test results:
      • Reinforce weak areas using extra materials.
      • Adjust wheel attachment for better movement.
      • Seal gaps to improve performance in water, snow, or debris.
    • Teams document changes to track improvements.
  3. Step 3: Retest Vehicles in Extreme Weather Conditions (15 minutes)
    • Scouts roll their modified vehicle down the ramp into the matching obstacle pan.
    • Observe key factors:
      • Flood Vehicles – Do they float better or stay drier?
      • Blizzard Vehicles – Do improved wheels move through “snow” more smoothly?
      • Earthquake Vehicles – Does added reinforcement help over rough terrain?
    • Scouts record observations for final evaluation.
  4. Wrap-Up Discussion (5 minutes)
    • Scouts compare results before and after modifications to see improvements.
    • Discuss how real engineers test, refine, and retest prototypes in real-world conditions.
    • Consider what further modifications could make the vehicle even better.
    • Wrap-Up Questions for Scouts
      • What was the biggest improvement in your design?
      • What challenges still remain?
      • If given more time, what would you change next?
Tia Kennard