Learning Objectives

Students will:

1. learn about cam mechanisms;
2. design a simple cam mechanism.

Preparation:

1. A sample cam mechanism
2. Pre-cut box materials
3. Engraving materials: 3mm basswood sheets
4. Wood glue
5. Laserbox

Session 1  Lead-in

Showcase students how a sample cam mechanism works and invite them to try it out. Ask students a question: “Do you know why the rod above the box keeps moving up and down? “

Possible answer: “It’s because when we turn the rod on the right-hand side, it will lead to the rod on top of the box moving up and down.”

Ask students another question: “Then why is the rod on the box moving up and down and rotating at the same time while the rod on the right-hand side keeps circling?”

Give students time to think about this question.

Explain to students: “In this project, a transmission system is applied. So we need to know what a transmission system is. A transmission system transmits power from one part of a machine to another. All the components that make a machine or parts of a machine move or rotate constitute a transmission system.”

For the complete lesson plan and instruction manual, please download the Lesson Plan.