Building Devices with Simple Machines

The photo shows one of the most famous pieces of Canadian engineering, the Canadarm 2. Also known as the Mobile Servicing System (MSS), this robotic arm is attached to the International Space Station. The MSS is very important in building and fixing the space station. Also, it helps astronauts on spacewalks. By understanding how simple machines work to make devices that move, we can build fantastic machines such as the MSS.

Essential Question

How do simple machines work to build devices that make working and moving easier?

Targets

At the end of this unit, you should be able to answer the following questions:

1. What are simple machines, and how do they make work easier?

1.1 What advantage do I get from using a lever?

1.2 How do wheels and rollers help move things from place to place?

1.3 What role do wheel and axle systems have in moving vehicles and devices?

2. How can I build machines so they move the way I want?

2.1 How force be used to move a vehicle?

2.2 How can you build a machine or device that moves on its own?

2.3 What is needed to design a safe vehicle?

2.4 How can ideas be shared and designs be compared to build the best moving device possible?