Ep 1. Blast Proof House

In the first episode of Smash Lab season 1, the team of experts and designers take on the challenge of creating a blast-proof house. The episode starts with an introduction of the experienced and innovative team members including industrial designer Chuck Messner, architect/contractor Deanne Bell, materials engineer Dr. Andrew Shapiro, master mechanic Eric Stevenson and biomedical engineer Dr. Zoe Carlson. Together, they strive to come up with a unique and practical solution for building a house that can withstand an explosion.

The team is given the task of constructing a house that can endure a blast wave that is equivalent to the detonation of 250 pounds of TNT. They start by assessing the weaknesses and strengths of traditional building materials and construction methods. They discuss how buildings usually collapse during a blast due to the inability of traditional materials to absorb or dissipate the energy created during the explosion. They aim to create a house that not only withstands the blast, but also one that protects its occupants from the impact of the explosion and the ensuing debris.

The episode features the team exploring several unique ideas, including the use of blast-resistant materials, designing a bunker-like structure that is half buried, and even constructing the house underwater. The team experiments with different materials, including Kevlar, reinforced concrete, and double-layered walls. They also look into different designs, such as having a house with no windows or making a house that is completely round. They go through rigorous testing processes, including using a small scale model and carrying out virtual simulations to test the effectiveness of each design.

The episode is not just about the science and engineering involved in creating a blast-proof house, but also highlights the creative and artistic skills that go into designing and building something that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The team members brainstorm and sketch various blueprints and designs, each one featuring unique and innovative ideas. The team also visits various construction sites, including a quarry and a concrete factory, to discuss and experiment with different materials and techniques.

Throughout the episode, the team faces various challenges, including budget constraints and time constraints. They have to ensure that the blast-proof house is not just strong enough to withstand a blast, but it also meets the necessary building codes and standards. The team eventually decides on a design that uses a combination of materials and construction techniques, including specially designed insulated concrete panels, shock-absorbing flooring, and a unique arch-shaped design that provides structural stability.

In the end, the team is able to build a truly unique and innovative blast-proof house that meets all the necessary requirements. The final product is not just functional and durable, but it is also visually attractive and comfortable to live in. The episode concludes with the team looking back at the challenges and triumphs of the project, highlighting the importance of using science, engineering, and creativity to tackle real-world problems.

Overall, the first episode of Smash Lab season 1 is an exciting, informative, and educational showcase of the possibilities of using science and technology to create something that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing. The show features a team of experts who are passionate about using their skills and knowledge to make a positive impact on the world. Whether you are interested in engineering, architecture, design, or just want to learn something new, Smash Lab is a show that is guaranteed to captivate and inspire.