Keeping My Desktop Clean
Human Health and Behavior
Ethan Dennis
- Grade:
- 5
- Teacher:
- Rebecca Welter
I made this design because I did not like how messy my desk always got. So my design is a way to not only keep my desk clean but also be usable. My project makes it impossible for me to just put stuff on my desk to make it messy. I learned that even with problems that seem impossible to solve you can always find a way to creatively solve it.
This is a creative and practical engineering solution to a real-life problem! I really liked how you clearly defined the problem on page 3 and connected it to research like the “Law of Flat Surfaces”, which explains why flat surfaces collect clutter. Your background research on roll-top desks shows thoughtful inspiration from historical designs. Your design requirements were clear and measurable, especially specifying the exact desk size and the need for a rounded top to prevent clutter. I was impressed that you built a cardboard prototype first, tested it, and then evaluated what worked and what didn’t. Adding a shelf after testing shows strong problem-solving and iteration. The redesign section demonstrates smart material thinking recognizing that wood doesn’t bend easily and using fabric with a slope to prevent a flat surface. The final design photos clearly show a functional and visually appealing solution.
Excellent application of the engineering design process identify a problem, research, prototype, test, evaluate, and redesign.
Keep designing practical solutions to everyday challenges!
This is a fantastic engineering project! I was particularly impressed by your research into the ‘Law of Flat Surfaces’—it’s rare to see a student apply behavioral theory to a mechanical desk design. Your approach to the engineering design process was spot-on; you built a prototype, tested it, identified that cardboard wasn’t the right material for a long-term solution, and then intelligently redesigned your model to include a shelf and a slope. That ability to pivot when a design doesn’t work is exactly what professional engineers do every day. Your final design looks clean and functional. For future work, consider what materials you would choose if you were to build this out of wood or recycled plastic to ensure it lasts! Great job.