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The first Technology Learning Activity is to design a model bridge that will hold the maximum amount of weight.
Students
work in teams of two. They begin the project by defining 10 terms associated
with engineering. The students use a computer with a dictionary program to find
the definitions. The teams are given a set of parameters they must keep their
designs within. Each group will then draw thumbnail sketches of the designs
they would like to test. The next step is for the students to learn to use a
basic computer assisted drawing program (CAD). The program draws the student’s
design and applies the forces and stress loads that bridges must withstand.
When the students determine which of their designs will perform the best; their
designs are printed out.
The
students are taught the basic skills of Drafting. The teams are required to
make a full size drawing of a model bridge they will build.
Using a hot glue gun and a bundle of 25 sticks, each team builds their model bridge. When the bridges are complete, the students test their bridges to determine the maximum load their bridges will carry. The results are recorded and converted from metric to English measurement. The final load-bearing ratio is determined, and a report turned in by the group.
The second Technology Learning Activity is about Power and Transportation. The students design and produce a variety of cars powered by small electric motors.
First, they begin the project by defining 10 vocabulary words associated with Power and Transportation. The students again use a computer with a dictionary program to find the definitions. The different methods of power transmission are learned, and then each student is given wheels and axles along with a variety of materials from which they will build a mobile platform or chassis. Once they have the chassis ready, the students may choose different power transmission methods to try out, such as: a belt drive, gear drive, bevel gear drive, worm gear drive, air propelled or chain drive. If they complete all of these, they may design and build a hovercraft.
The cars the students build are
powered by a variety of small electric motors. The students must determine
which is best for their type of vehicle. Powerful, slow turning motor or
lightweight, high speed motor, high or low voltage motors. The students may
also choose how they will power their cars, by battery or solar panel.
When
the students have built several types of vehicles, they are encouraged to
combine two or more types of power transmission and create their own version of
a hybrid car.