Unit 8: Mechanical Engineering
Students explore the field of Mechanical Engineering: the discipline concerned with the design of systems that involve forces and movement, and utilize power to accomplish a task. Students must work between design requirements and constraints as they complete a group project in Mechanical Engineering.
8.1 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering
Students study the subspecialties of Mechanical Engineering and “a day in the life” of a mechanical engineer.
- Lesson Plan (8.1 Introduction to Mechanical Engineering)
- In Class
- Homework
- Assignment 8.2: Trebuchet Project Introduction
- Links
8.2 Trebuchet Project Introduction
Students learn about the design requirements and criteria of their project for the Mechanical Engineering Unit.
- Lesson Plan (8.2 Trebuchet Project Introduction)
- In Class
- Homework
8.3 Autodesk Inventor Tutorial
Students learn how to draw simple shapes in Autodesk Inventor.
- Lesson Plan (8.3 Autodesk Inventor Tutorial)
- In Class
- Assignment 8.3.1: Autodesk Inventor Tutorial Shape
- Homework: Complete in class assignment if necessary
8.4 Trebuchet Simulation
Based on their understanding of the forces and motion involved in a trebuchet, work with a trebuchet simulator to optimize the performance of their trebuchet, within the project design constraints.
- Lesson Plan (8.4 Trebuchet Simulation)
- In Class
- Assignment 8.4.1: Trebuchet Simulation Results
- Homework: Complete in class assignment if necessary
8.5 Trebuchet Sketch
After learning from their simulations, students now sketch the design of their trebuchet arm.
- Lesson Plan (8.5 Trebuchet Sketch)
- In Class
- Homework: Complete in class assignment if necessary
8.6 Trebuchet 3D Arm Model
Students translate the sketch of their trebuchet arm into a 3D CAD model using Inventor.
- Lesson Plan (8.6 Trebuchet 3D Arm Model)
- In Class
- Homework
8.7 Trebuchet Assembly
Students assemble their trebuchet, using their designed arm.
- Lesson Plan (8.7 Trebuchet Assembly)
- In Class
- Homework
8.8 Mechanical Engineering Student Presentations
Students present their research into a technology they have chosen that is related to Mechanical Engineering.
- Lesson Plan (8.8 Student Presentations on Mechanical Engineering Technology)
- In Class
- Assignment 8.8.1: Presentation Summaries
- Homework
8.9 Trebuchet Test and Reflection
Students present their research into a technology they have chosen that is related to Chemical Engineering.
- Lesson Plan (8.9 Trebuchet Test and Reflection)
- In Class
- Assignment 8.9.1: Trebuchet Testing
- Homework
8.10 Mechanical Engineering Review and Unit Quiz
Students review for and take a quiz on the Mechanical Engineering unit.
- Lesson Plan (8.10 Mechanical Engineering Review and Quiz)
- In Class
- Homework