Before we started our simple machine project we first had to learn about the 6 types of simple machines. The 6 types of simple machines are:
Lever
Pulley
Inclined plane
Wedge
Screw
Wheel & axle
Once we knew more about the 6 types of simple machines, we then started our project. For the project, we had partners and used the VEX materials to make an example of all the simple machines. The one simple machine we did not make was the wedge. All the project was was to build all the different types of simple machines and do certain calculations or tests that the packet said, with that simple machine. We dealt with all the different types of levers and pulleys as you can see in the pictures at the bottom of the page. Basically, the point of this project was to learn about the different types of simple machines because they were incorporated into most of the projects we completed in the rest of the course. This project also lead us into our next project, the compound machine design challenge.
My major take-a-ways from this project were that I got to learn about the different types of simple machines; now that i know them, I pick them out more easily in every day life. Also, doing this project helped me realize that these little machine can turn into the biggest projects/machines and most people do not even realize it.
Here are some pictures of the simple machines we made: