1. Multi-Angle Photos to help you build.
Gear Mechanisms
Multi-Angle Photos to
help you build.

2. Mechanism – A system of parts working together.
AR Definitions…
Mechanism – A system of parts working together.

3. Gear – A rotating machine part with teeth
AR Definitions…
Gear – A rotating machine part with teeth

4. Gear Train – 2 or more gears connected together to do work.
AR Definitions…
Gear Train – 2 or more gears connected together to do work.

5. Torque – Force applied to turn an object
AR Definitions…
Torque – Force applied to turn an object

6. Mechanism Work Days Content Objectives: Language Objectives:
SWBAT use their problem solving skills to re-create the mechanism assigned, using VEX materials.
SWBAT identify the steps of the Design Process that they are using to build their project.
Language Objectives:
SWBAT name the parts of the VEX kit that they use to build their mechanism.
SWBAT list and describe the steps of the Design Process in their notebook.

7. Mechanism Presentation Day
Objectives:
SWBAT explain the process of building for their group’s mechanism out loud to the class.
SWBAT demonstrate the function of the mechanism using their prototype.
SWBAT share with the class their explanation for the purpose/function of the mechanism their group researched.

8. Before you start… Three tips to a successful building experience.
Never force any parts together, or over-tighten them. Patience is the key!
Make sure you have the right screwdriver. Shiny screws need the screwdriver with the shiny end.
Always use plastic ‘bearings’ when using a metal rod or “axle”. This allows it to move more freely.

9. Gear Base
Parts needed

10. Simple Gear Train
FRONT
TOP
BACK

11. Gear Train with Idler
FRONT
TOP
BACK

12. Bevel Gear
FRONT
SIDE
BACK

13. Worm and Wheel
FRONT
SIDE
TOP

14. Leadscrew
FRONT
MIDDLE ASSEMBLY
END

15. Rack and Pinion Part1 RACK WITH MOTOR SCREWS MOTOR SCREWS
SLIDER ASSEMBLY

16. Rack and Pinion Part2
SIDE
TOP
PINION GEAR

17. Universal Joint
FRONT
TOP
SIDE

18. Chain Drive
FRONT
SIDE
TOP

19. Belt Drive
TOP
FRONT

20. FRONT
Crank and Slider
CRANK
TOP
SLIDER

21. Cam and Follower
TOP
SIDE
FRONT

22. What do I do next? OBJECTIVES: VEX Scavenger Hunt Project Goals:
SWBAT identify the pieces of the VEX Kit by name.
SWBAT describe the function of each piece of the VEX Kit.
SWBAT choose a mechanism from the set of choices.
SWBAT use their problem-solving skills to re-create the mechanism assigned, using VEX pieces.
SWBAT explain the function of the mechanism, using their prototype and the research they have conducted.
VEX Scavenger Hunt Project Goals:
Work together in groups of 3
Work efficiently
Discover all sections of the cart and pegboard
Mechanism Project Goals:
Re-create the mechanism with fully-functional gears from the VEX cart materials
Develop a research poster (Google Slide) that contains
a picture of your finished product
an explanation of the function
objects that use this mechanism used in real life

23. We finished our Mechanism Project…
What do we do next?
Observing Mechanisms
Read through the sections on my.pltw.org
Complete the Packet provided by your teacher
Think about the input vs. output on your mechanism
Use a post-it note to label those placements on your mechanism