Hobbies And Interests
Significance
Children and adults enjoy building their own cars, and use creativity in design while also paying attention to function (speed and performance). Most design elements remain basic, with a cart or buggy-like appearance and enclosed body. This allows for minimal maneuverability and maximum speed. Soap box derby cars are reminiscent of a bobsled in that they use hills for their force of gravity rather than motors or wind power. Building a soap box derby car teaches one the basics of mechanics and engineering, which reinforces the simple way that body, mind and machine can form movement.
Function
The soapbox derby car is used for transporting one person down a hill or steep valley--preferably in a straight line, as most cars aren't capable of making sharp turns. The cars can be used in races in which racers are based strictly on speed and accuracy; many times, cash and trophies are generated for top place earners. A driver typically sits inside the one-person cart and keeps it on a single path to the finish line. Soap box cars can weigh up to 150 pounds and reach speeds of up to 30 mph, making them competitive with other derby cars and drivers. Some soap box derby cars are for display only and are judged on color, design and artwork.
Types
Soap box derby cars were once made from wooden crates or wood scraps, then painted according to the racer's specifications. Today, cars are made from steel, aluminum or fiberglass. This makes them more durable, faster and crash-resistant as opposed to older, wooden models. Most derby cars are designed to be simple with their elements. Rope maneuverability with the front axle can also double as a pull cord to pull the car back to an automobile or garage. Some cars utilize chains as their ways of steering the cars, but rope keeps to the traditional, un-modernized style of the car.
Considerations
One should take a few specifications into consideration before designing and building a soap box derby car. The car must have at least four working wheels that help to contribute to the maneuverability of the car; therefore, they must be connected to the steering wheel by ropes or chains. Most cars don't have brakes, but they can be added--especially if the car will be used for racing or in competitions. No engine, pedals or power boost of any kind except for man generated can be used in competitions or races, as this is against most racing regulations. The car is designed to be powered by natural human elements.
Cautions
Because soap box derby cars are generally designed with speed and racing in mind, having proper safety gear is essential in preventing injury. A helmet is a must while racing a derby car in order to prevent head injury if the car flips over or crashes into an object. Remember, many derby cars can reach speeds of 30 mph.