UNDERSTANDING TECHNOLOGY

KNOWLEDGE
 Help the cat get out the tree

 Identify problem
 Design solution
 Make product
 Evaluate it
 Mechanisms and Movement

 Mechanism:
 simple machine,
 Does work for people,
 Makes work easier by controlling movement and force
 Has an input and an output
 Types of movements

 Linear
 Reciprocal
 Oscillating
 Rotary movement

 Can be used on their own or in combination

 Structures in Technology
 Structures are all around us, natural or constructed
 Designed to do particular job
 Can be defined as anything that supports a load
 Can enclose a space therefore offering protection
 Types of Structures
Shell structure:
 Have their support on the outside

Frame structure:
 Have their support on the inside
Forces acting on structures
 Compression = pushing force, e.g. books on a shelf
 Tension = pulling force, e.g. trampoline pushing on springs
 Torsion = twisting force, e.g. turning a tap
 Bending = bending force, e.g. heavy weight on a shelf
 Shearing = tearing force, e.g. a hook breaks if weight is too heavy
 Energy – is the ability to do work

2 sources of energy
Renewable - sun, water, wind

Non-renewable - fossil fuels, nuclear fuels

Renewable energy

 Solar energy – energy for the sun in form of heat or light

Water energy
 Water wheel on a stream
 Hydroelectric power
Wind energy
 Wind is moving air.
 Windmills
 Wind turbines
 Kites
 Kite surfing
Electrical energy
 Electricity in our homes, schools, places of work

 Dangers when working with electricity

 Ideas for in the classroom
 Mix and match bird nest to bird type
 Mix and match shoes to different walking conditions
 Houses match to climate