Competitions

Ah nostalgia...the old electronics magazines used to have 'circuit ideas' and the like which would pay a few £/$ .

Maybe look for something that will save you money...solar hot water, wind powered generator, projectile weapons, kids toys?
I have an Engineering Project Generator (but you can't borrow it)...it's Mrs Cat.
(You should see my ToDo list on the desktop , I have to sneak in the fun stuff)

Del

Try googling Robots First. Their yearly competition is later this month - then they begin on next years projects.

Several trade magazines have "technical teasers" or "process puzzler" sections where subscribers are invited to suggest answers. In later months, best answers are published so you get to see your answer Vs others, but seldom is there any monetary reward that I've seen.

well monetary reward would always just be the bonus. But I would like to find some competitions for fun and entertainment.

I just saw this on another CR4 blog. It's for the new 'space race'.

http://cr4.globalspec.com/blogentry/5098/Race-to-the-Moon-Again?frmtrk=CR4digest

Although it is aerospace, it has a strong mechanical engineering basis. This competition is for professionals, maybe you could participate in this competition through your company.