Unit Summary: Students will gain an understanding of mechanisms through the application of theory-based calculations accompanied by lab experimentation.
Big Ideas
Most mechanisms are composed of gears, sprockets, pulley systems, and simple machines.
Mechanisms are used to redirect energy within a system by manipulating force, speed, and distance.
Mechanical advantage ratios mathematically evaluate input work versus output work of mechanisms
Essential Questions
How do mechanisms provide leverage (mechanical advantage) and how do you calculate that advantage based on the simple machine used?
What are some strategies that can be used to make everyday mechanisms more efficient?
Describe one situation in which an engineer would want to include a mechanism with a mechanical advantage greater than one? What is the advantage in this case?
How could designing a solution to a mechanical problem without regard to efficiency be problematic?
Priority TEKS
Know, and distinguish among, the six simple machines, their attributes, and components.
Know the equations to solve for mechanical advantage, work, and power.
Measure forces and distances related to mechanisms
Calculate mechanical advantage and drive ratios of mechanisms.
Calculate work and power in mechanical systems.
Determine efficiency in a mechanical system
Activities & Projects
Simple Machines Guided Notes – ppt presentation w/guided notes
Unit Conversion Review & Practice
Simple Machine Investigation
Simple Machine Practice Problems
Gears, Pulley Drives and Sprockets (GPD&S) Guided Notes
GPD&S Practice Problems
Gear Lab
Project Compound Machine Design
Assessment 1