What type of machine or device should I build?

Question

I am a freshman in college and I plan to attend medical school, but I have this slight urge or desire to build and invent things. Things that include machines, small devices or anything. I am fascinated by the knowledge of how something works and how to create, fix or destroy it. I am thinking about switching majors to engineering, but I am no where close to taking that step. I want to try building something small first and see how the accomplishment makes me feel. If I like it and want to go further I shall, but what device or machine should I start with? Anything will do from a computer related things to transportation devices, but something a little bit bigger then a simple series circuit. I do not have much knowledge in building things, but I am determined. Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

be a biomedical engineer. they are the ones who design stuff like that. regular engineering or premed will not be all that helpful if you dont get the proper mix of basics before you specialize.

biomed engineers design: pacemakers,fake hearts, EKGs, CATs, dosing pumps, fake knees ect.

a good thing to build is a car that follows a line. there are lots of designs on the internet. find the simplest one. it should have 10-12 electrical components. simple but cool

Answer 2

A perpetual motion machine!... failing that, a work-saving device of some sort.

Answer 3

find out a device which give the information of danger related to any kind of work before any mishappen

Answer 4

build a radio controlled car or boat...they sell the kits..but it also helps you understand how the stuff works...

Answer 5

Build a home made wind generator.  

Answer 6

OK, Here is what you should do. Go ahead and go to medical school, and then work for a while as a medical doctor. From this experience and talking to other doctors, you will learn of things that you can invent to help Dr's. help their patients. The Dr that invented the artificial heart did just that!

Answer 7

A paper clock. "They really work!!"