Invention
Teachers: Please complete a registration for each project you are sending to the STEM and History Expo.
Definition : An Invention is a new device, contrivance, or process that was originated after study and experimentation.
- Minimum Requirements: A successful Invention must have the following:
Labeled illustration showing two viewpoints of proposed invention - A ‘mock-up’ or prototype construction of all or part of the invention
- Written portion detailing: materials needed; how invention would be used; how it would be beneficial; and description of intended audience / user of the invention
- Additional Judging Will Be Based On The Following:
- Sequential steps in the design process identified, including any problems encountered, and their solutions
- Research evidence provided that no similar process or product exists
- The inventor has taken further steps beyond creation: patents applied for, publicity created, etc.
- The invention uses unique or innovative methodologies in solving the problem or need
- Drawings or descriptive text clearly describes construction process.
- Materials required to build the invention are described and specified.
- Benefits of invention to target users and general public are clearly explained
- Target audience or users of the invention are identified and have a valid need for the invention
- Overall invention described clearly
- Visual Aids promote understanding
- Prototype is well designed and constructed
- Function of each part is identified and completely described
- The Invention is practical in terms of size – cost – materials – etc, for the problem being solved.
- The invention offers functionality that solves the problem efficiently
- The Invention addresses a real world problem or need