Explore how machines move, transfer energy, and apply forces to complete tasks. These projects help students investigate gears, pulleys, levers, mechanical advantage, and real-world engineering systems through hands-on building and testing.
Simple Machines
Build and compare different types of levers
Study how inclined planes reduce required force
Test pulley systems for lifting efficiency
Gears & Gear Ratios
Build gear trains and measure speed vs torque
Compare spur, bevel, and worm gears
Study how gear ratios affect mechanical advantage
Energy Transfer
Build a rubber‑band powered car and measure distance
Test how spring compression affects stored energy
Compare elastic vs gravitational energy systems
Motion & Forces
Study friction using different surface materials
Build a small catapult and measure projectile motion
Test how mass affects acceleration
Mechanical Advantage
Measure force reduction using multi‑pulley systems
Compare mechanical advantage in levers and gears
Study how wheel diameter affects lifting power
Structural Mechanics
Build beams and test bending strength
Compare triangular vs rectangular supports
Study how load placement affects stability
Real‑World Mechanical Systems
Build a model elevator using pulleys and counterweights
Design a mechanical claw or grabber
Study how bicycles use gears and levers for efficiency
Engineering Challenges
Design a machine that moves an object using only simple machines
Build a device that converts rotational motion into linear motion
Test how design changes improve efficiency and reliability
