Design Deep Dive
This step comes before brainstorming and defines the problem and its limits.
What is identifying the problem?
This happens to distance when force is reduced.
What is distance increases?
A bridge must hold 500 pounds—this is an example of this.
What is criteria?
This simple machine is found in a doorknob.
What is a wheel and axle?
This skill helps engineers work well with others.
What is communication?
These two things must be identified before designing a solution.
What are criteria and constraints?
This simple machine reduces the force needed to lift an object by increasing distance.
What is an inclined plane?
A project must cost less than $20—this is an example of this.
What is a constraint?
This simple machine is found in a knife.
What is a wedge?
This is the best tool to move a heavy object into a truck.
What is an inclined plane?
This step involves building a model or prototype to test an idea.
What is building a prototype?
This is the trade-off when using a simple machine.
What is less force but more distance?
After a prototype fails testing, engineers do this next.
What is improve/redesign?
These two simple machines are found in a wheelbarrow.
What are a lever and wheel & axle?
This is why engineers must consider constraints when designing.
What is to stay within limits like cost, materials, or size?
This step uses test results to improve a design.
What is iteration/improving the design?
This type of machine can change the direction of force.
What is a pulley?
This type of impact includes pollution and environmental damage.
What is environmental impact?
This simple machine is a twisted inclined plane.
What is a screw?
This is what engineers use to decide if a design is successful.
What are criteria?
This is why engineers repeat the design process multiple times.
What is to improve and optimize the solution?
This explains why lifting straight up is harder than using a ramp.
What is more force is required over a shorter distance?
This is why engineers test designs before final use.
What is to identify problems and ensure safety?
These two simple machines are found in scissors.
What are a lever and wedge?
This explains why using a pulley might take more rope but less effort.
What is the trade-off between force and distance?