Engineering Design, Systems, Simple Machines, Electricity & CAD Midterm Review

What is the focus of science?

Studying the natural world through observations and experiments.

How does technology differ from science?

Technology applies knowledge to solve practical problems and meet human needs.

What does engineering involve?

Using science, math, and technology to design solutions to problems.

What is the Engineering Design Process (EDP)?

A systematic, iterative method used to solve problems and develop solutions that meet human needs and wants.

What is the first step in the Engineering Design Process?

Define the Problem: Identify the problem, its requirements, and limitations.

What is involved in the 'Generate Concepts' step of the EDP?

Research, brainstorm, sketch ideas, and use a decision matrix to compare possible solutions.

What does 'Develop a Solution' entail in the EDP?

Choosing the best idea and creating detailed sketches, technical drawings, and models.

What is the purpose of constructing and testing a prototype?

To build a working model and test its performance, usability, and durability.

What does 'Evaluate the Solution' involve?

Analyzing results, identifying problems, and making improvements.

What is the final step in the Engineering Design Process?

Present the Solution: Share the final design through presentations and project documentation.

What is the difference between criteria and constraints?

Criteria are requirements or goals a design must meet, while constraints are limitations or restrictions on a design.

What is a Design Brief?

A written plan identifying the problem, criteria, and constraints.

What is a Decision Matrix used for?

A chart used to compare and evaluate possible solutions.

Define a Prototype.

A working or partially working model of a design.

What is Universal Design?

Making products usable by people with different abilities without requiring modifications.

Name one principle of Universal Design.

Equitable Use: Useful for people with different abilities.

What is a Simple Machine?

A device with few or no moving parts that changes motion or force to make work easier.

What are the six types of simple machines?

Lever, Wheel and Axle, Pulley, Inclined Plane, Wedge, Screw.

What is a Lever?

A rigid bar that rotates around a fulcrum.

What does a Wheel and Axle do?

It consists of a wheel attached to a shaft; both rotate together.

What is a Pulley used for?

A grooved wheel with a rope or belt used to transfer motion or lift loads.

What is an Inclined Plane?

A sloped surface that makes lifting objects easier.

What is a Wedge?

A moving inclined plane with a thin edge used to cut or separate materials.

What is a Screw?

An inclined plane wrapped around a cylinder.

What is a System?

A group of organized parts working together to accomplish a goal.

What is the Universal Systems Model?

It includes Input, Process, Output, and Feedback.

What is the difference between an Open System and a Closed System?

An Open System does not use a feedback loop, while a Closed System uses feedback to monitor and adjust performance.

What are the Nine Core Technologies?

Mechanical, Structural, Electrical, Electronic, Optical, Thermal, Materials, Biotechnology, Fluid Technology.

What is Pneumatics?

A technology that uses gases, usually compressed air.

What is Hydraulics?

A technology that uses liquids to transmit force.

What are the three components of every lever?

Fulcrum, Effort, Load

What is a first-class lever?

A lever where the fulcrum is in the middle (e.g., seesaw, scissors).

What is the ideal mechanical advantage (IMA) of a second-class lever?

Greater than 1.

What is the formula for work?

Work = Force × Distance (W = F × d)

What does mechanical advantage (MA) measure?

How a machine multiplies the applied force.

What is the difference between actual mechanical advantage (AMA) and ideal mechanical advantage (IMA)?

AMA includes friction losses; IMA does not.

What is the formula for calculating the circumference of a wheel?

C = π × Diameter

What is a proton?

A positively charged particle located in the nucleus of an atom.

What is the difference between AC and DC?

DC flows in one direction; AC reverses direction.

What is a conductor?

A material that allows electric current to flow easily (e.g., copper, gold).

What is Ohm's Law?

V = I × R (Voltage = Current × Resistance)

What is a closed circuit?

A complete electrical path where current can flow.

What is the role of a resistor in a circuit?

To limit electric current.

What does a battery do?

Supplies electrical energy.

What is the purpose of a potentiometer?

An adjustable resistor.

What is the difference between an open circuit and a closed circuit?

An open circuit has a broken electrical path; a closed circuit is complete.

What is the definition of voltage?

Electrical pressure that pushes charges, measured in volts (V).

What is the function of a diode?

Allows current mainly in one direction.

What is the significance of the long leg of an LED?

It is the positive leg (anode).

What is the purpose of a capacitor?

Stores electrical charge.

What does the term 'neutral atom' mean?

An atom with equal numbers of protons and electrons.

What is the difference between a conductor and an insulator?

A conductor allows current to flow; an insulator resists current.

What is the formula for calculating the ideal mechanical advantage of an inclined plane?

IMA = Ramp Length ÷ Ramp Height

What is the purpose of a switch in a circuit?

To open or close a circuit.

What is an ion?

An atom that has gained or lost electrons.

What is the difference between a series circuit and a parallel circuit?

A series circuit has one path for current; a parallel circuit has multiple paths.

What is the ideal mechanical advantage of a third-class lever?

Less than 1.

What is a breadboard used for?

To build temporary circuits without soldering.

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