Blade 2 - Materials Indices

The second task of this project was to provide a specific or small selection of materials that would be best suited for use as a machete. In total William Y. derived four separate materials indices. Materials indices are theoretically determined functions were by an engineer can choose to maximize or minimize the values of certain materials properties (ie. density, Elastic Modulus, etc.). This allows them to screen the vast options of materials available to us as engineers and select the best possible option. These indices prioritize a maximizing of energy transferred from the wielders swing or kinetic motion to the target object. This translates to a need for a stiff blade that doesn’t plastically deform during usage. These indices are still under review and will need further refinement. They are presented below, in order of importance.