Model Description This is a simple and rapid demonstration of the perpendicular and parallel components of a force vector on an inclined plane. By weighing a student or instructor first on the floor and then at some inclination, a “loss of weight” is observed. This demonstration should take 5-8 minutes. Engineering Principle Spring scales are […]
Model Description This simple pair of K’NEX models can demonstrate how trusses greatly increase the strength/stiffness of structures without adding much weight. The trusses are built out of K’NEX pieces and topped with construction paper to produce a roadway. Text books are used to load the trusses to demonstrate its strength to weight ratio. This […]
Overview This is a demonstration of the basic principles underlying the behavior of rotating bodies. A cylinder “race” is used to show that the closer the mass of an object is concentrated to an axis of rotation, the faster it will spin because it has a lower moment of inertia, which is a measure of […]
Overview Thrill your students with Tales of Torque using the versatile Tower of Torque! In it’s simplest form, the device allows students to predict and then measure the capacity of a simple bolt, modeled as a rod in torsion. Principle For cylindrical rods in torsion, the maximum shear stress experienced is seen at the outer […]
Overview This is a simple demonstration of the basic principals underlying the behavior of thin-walled pressure vessels (TWPVs). A balloon or balloons are used to show that hoop stresses are twice as high as longitudinal stresses in cylindrical pressure vessels. Principle The basic derivation for TWPV behavior states that for a cylindrical pressure vessel […]