“The Simple Machines Behind the Magic” Industrial Engineering & Simple Machines By: Rachel Thomas, Kayla Brena, & Chandler Reynolds

Aisha Makes Work Easier An Industrial Engineering Story

What is Engineering? Webster's Dictionary defines it as: “the work of designing and creating large structures (such as roads and bridges) or new products or systems by using scientific methods.” The book defines with this quote: “Engineers are people who use their creativity and knowledge of math and science to design things, systems, or processes that solve problems.” (pg. 5)

What is Industrial Engineering? ●Industrial engineers apply mathematics, science, and engineering concepts to complex systems with the purpose of eliminating wasted time, money, materials, labor, and other resources. ●Industrial engineers often work with systems or processes ○They make these processes more basic by utilizing simple machines

What are Simple Machines? Simple machines are “simple” because they require the application of a single force to work. There are 6 kinds of common simple machines: 1.Levers 2.Pulleys 3.Inclined Planes 4.Wheels and Axles 5.Screws (not mentioned in the book) 6.Wedges

Let’s Learn the Different Types of Simple Machines!

Lever A lever consists of a rigid beam that pivots at a fixed point called the fulcrum. “Changing the distance between the fulcrum and the weight changes the force you need to use to lift it.” (pg. 32)

Wheel and Axle The wheel is affixed to and rotates around an axle. Effort is applied to the outside of the wheel. The bigger the wheel, the less effort that is needed to move a load.

Pulley A pulley consists of a rope (or similar material) wrapped around a grooved wheel. The wheel rotates around a fixed point. “We use pulleys all the time around here to change the direction of forces.” (p.17)

Inclined Plane An inclined plane is essentially an elevated surface. It is the simplest of all simple machines because it has no moving parts at all.

Wedge A wedge is made up of two inclined planes put together. These 2 plane meet and form a sharp edge. “A wedge is a simple machine that helps push things apart.” (pg.24)

The “Try It” Activity! Instructions: Using a handful of classroom materials, students are asked to construct simple machines to help solve an everyday problem, such as lifting something heavy, or moving a large object from one place to another. Materials: The book lists several possibilities for materials, such as paper cups, string, sticks, a broomstick or yardstick, rubber bands, cardboard, tape, and an empty paper roll or spool.

What We Did Pulley Lever Wheels

The Engineering Design Process Ask: How can simple machines help you with work you do every day? Which simple machines would be best to use to solve these problems? Imagine: Could a broomstick become a lever? Could an empty paper roll be made into a pulley? Plan: Draw a picture of what your system will look like. Think about which problem you are trying to solve Create: Build your simple machine system and test it. Improve: Think about what you can do to make a better system. Go to the library and learn more about machines and how they work effectively.

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