What is a braking system not involving the end of any string that will stop a mousetrap car at a certain distance?

Answer 1

THE LOCK NUT SYSTEMThe lock-nut system is by far the most accurate braking system that can be used. The lock-nut braking system uses a wing-nut that travels along a threaded axle. As the threaded axle turns a wing nut travels along the threaded axle until it lock tight against the frame of the vehicle, or the axle, causing the vehicle to come to an instant stop. Setting the braking system is simple and easy: just place the vehicle at the finish line with the wing nut in the lock position, roll the vehicle back to the start line and the wing nut is set to the exact starting position. Now you are ready to go. The wing-nut braking is very accurate and consistent but the best part it that it can be set for almost any distance by following the same steps as described.

Setting the lock-nut braking system is simple and easy, just place the vehicle at the finish line with the wing nut in the locked position, roll the mousetrap vehicle back to the start line, and this sets the wing nut to the exact starting position needed. This easy to set braking system can be re positioned for any length course by repeating the described procedure.

Adding traction to a wheel will give the wheel more grip and greater stopping potential. One way to increase the traction of a wheel on smooth surface is to add a rubber traction tread that has more grip than the original wheel alone. Various brands of rubber may have more grip than another brands of rubber so it is always best to experiment. Rubber bands can be stretches and placed directly over a wheel or the middle section of a balloon can be cut and then also stretch around a wheel to help increase the traction