This undergraduate student project involves mathematically modelling the motion of a yo-yo using a combination of theoretical, computational and experimental approaches to investigate the dynamics of various spinning maneuverers. In addition to the standard gravity-induced vertical upward and downward motion of the yo-yo, it is also possible to model the yo-yo as a pendulum of varying length to analyse its motion at an angle with respect to the vertical.  
 
This will be done by employing analytical and numerical techniques to model variations in the yo-yo's principal kinematical quantities (height, velocity, rotational angle and speed) and obtain trajectory plots depicting the spatial dynamics of its path. The theoretical results will also be compared with experimental observations obtained through sample testing using a small-scale yo-yo and electronic measuring apparatus including a microcontroller, accelerometer, solenoid and ToF sensors.