Project 1.1.6 Compound Machine Design (VEX)
Mechanical systems often require a combination of mechanisms to complete a given task. Any time two or more machines are combined, the result is a compound machine. If many mechanisms are combined, the machine may even be referred to as a complex machine. Compound machines can range in complexity from a crane or automobile to a simple manual can opener. A bicycle is an example of a compound machine. The pedals, brakes, handle bars, and sprocket systems are just some of the mechanisms on most bicycles. In this activity you will work in teams to design and build a compound machine to accomplish an instructor-specified task.
Activity 1.2.1 Energy Sources
According to the United States Department of Energy, Americans spend 500 billion dollars each year on energy. The world is facing the challenge of significantly increasing energy needs. Many unique energy sources are available. To meet future energy needs, engineers need to design technology to contribute new ways to harness energy, increase efficiency, and better transport and store energy.
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Activity 1.2.4 Circuit Calculations
Regardless of circuit complexity, circuit designers as well as users need to be able to apply basic electrical theories to circuits in order to verify safe operation and troubleshoot unexpected circuit failure. In this activity you will gain experience applying Ohm’s law and Kirchhoff’s voltage and current laws to circuits in order to gain understanding of circuit requirements and relationships between voltage, current, and resistance.
Activity 2.1.8 Truss Design
Truss design often occurs in large structures like building roof supports and bridges. Trusses can be designed in any number of ways, based upon constraints and expectations. One important consideration is how much a truss design weighs versus the load that it is capable of supporting. It is crucial that designers weigh all such factors to create a design.
It is important to create accurate and detailed documentation of designs and test results. Recording shapes, dimensions, failure loads and locations, and efficiency calculations are important. Record these figures so that one design can be compared to other designs, results can be replicated, and solutions can be communicated to other individuals.
It is important to create accurate and detailed documentation of designs and test results. Recording shapes, dimensions, failure loads and locations, and efficiency calculations are important. Record these figures so that one design can be compared to other designs, results can be replicated, and solutions can be communicated to other individuals.