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Year 7 - Design and technology

Movement with mechanisms

Prototypes with mechanisms: robotics and automation

Unit Summary

Pupils will model with paper and boards and learn about sources and stock forms. They will develop 3D computer-aided design knowledge and skills, applying this by designing and simulating mechanical systems using TinkerCAD.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain the different types of motion in mechanisms.

Key Notes

  • A lever is a very simple way to gain a mechanical advantage (MA) to make moving or lifting something easier.
  • Levers have three changeable elements on a bar, the fulcrum, effort and load.
  • Linkages are mechanisms that can change the magnitude and directions of a force.
  • Cams convert rotary into reciprocating motion. The shape of a cam determines the speed and magnitude of the motion.
  • The shape of the bottom of the follower changes the accuracy of the motion, however, this affects wear and friction.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • fulcrum: a fixed pivot point
  • effort: input force
  • load: output force
  • linkages: a set of levers joined together to transfer and control motion
  • cam: a mechanical component that converts rotary motion into linear motion

Common Mistakes To Avoid

  • The only way to gain MA is by increasing the input force.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

A lever is a very simple way to gain a mechanical advantage (MA) to make moving or lifting something easier. Levers have three changeable elements on a bar, the fulcrum, effort and load.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'fulcrum'

a fixed pivot point.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: The only way to gain MA is by increasing the input force. Correction: MA can be increased by increasing the distance from the fulcrum and the effort. For example, increasing the arm length on the handle of a flat head screwdriver when opening a can of paint.

More Lessons In This Unit

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