INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING DESIGN
TOWER OF POWER
TOWER OF POWER is a fun way to break the ice with students, and thus a great school year starter. This team building activity engages students in brainstorming and communication with their peers. Students must work together to build the tallest tower in the class. The building must be free standing (not attached to anything) at its base, and only one sheet of construction paper is permitted for the final product.
DIAL CALIPERS
Students use DIAL CALIPERS to measure small objects to one-thousandth (1/1000) of an inch. Here, they are to measure 3/4 inch wood cubes (to be used for their next project), record all measurements, and apply statistical analysis by calculating the mean, median, mode, range, and standard deviation to verify the quality and consistency of their data. Students also use a charting tool (histogram) to graphically display the frequency of the data to assist in some of the calculations.
PUZZLE CUBE PROJECT
The PUZZLE CUBE is an extensive project imitating the creative operations of an engineer. Students use the design process to identify problems, brainstorm solutions, design and draw plans, make a prototype, and create the final product.
Charting progress and reporting are also functions included in the project, which teaches students about meeting deadlines and holding themselves accountable for time spent on particular applications.
Charting progress and reporting are also functions included in the project, which teaches students about meeting deadlines and holding themselves accountable for time spent on particular applications.
INVENTOR PUZZLE CUBE
Students use Inventor software to create formal drawings of their puzzle cube. They begin with 2D sketches and 3D extrusions to create parts, an assembly, exploded view, and multi-views including dimensions, line types, and annotation.
Once finished, their project is converted into .pdf format and then uploaded to their online portfolio created in class. Students are encouraged to use this portfolio for other classes, as well, to showcase their work.
Other major projects include the beverage holder, toy train, and a park, which are more extensive and offer continuing learning opportunities. Upon completion of all projects, students should have gained a mastery of the Inventor software.
Once finished, their project is converted into .pdf format and then uploaded to their online portfolio created in class. Students are encouraged to use this portfolio for other classes, as well, to showcase their work.
Other major projects include the beverage holder, toy train, and a park, which are more extensive and offer continuing learning opportunities. Upon completion of all projects, students should have gained a mastery of the Inventor software.