Calculating Mechanical Advantage in Compound Machines

Mechanical Advantage of a Compound Machine

Multiply the mechanical advantages of all the simple machines involved.

How the Machine Works

Gears pull on the first pulley, which turns the second and third pulleys. These are connected to a second-class lever that raises the mass.

Controls Function

The buttons activate different parts of the program, controlling motor movement based on sensor input.

Project Contributions

Maia built the gears and pulley system; Shalini built the lever and gears for rotation; Maia built the base; Shalini stabilized it using triangles.

Parts Used in the Machine

Motors, sensors, levers, pulleys, gears, and structural parts (like triangles for stability).

Program Start Function

Sets the speed of the 369 rotational motor to 5%.

Touch Sensor 1 Action

If Touch Sensor 2 is also pressed → Stop the motor; Else → Counterclockwise X rotations, Clockwise X rotations, Counterclockwise to start.

Touch Sensor 2 Action

Wait until it's pressed → Stop Motor D → Set motors A and C to 10% → Move arm up 3 rotations → Move arm down 3 rotations.

Input and Mechanical Advantage for the Pulley

Effort = 1.5, MA = 0.65, Force = 0.1 × 9.8 ÷ 1.5.

Input and Mechanical Advantage for the Lever

Effort = 0.9, MA = 1.1.

Mechanical Advantage of the Gear System

MA = 5.

Overall Mechanical Advantage of the Machine

5 × 1.1 × 0.65 = 3.75.