Motorized Drawbridge
These activities are designed for the Motorized Drawbridge (ME-7028). The files listed in each experiment with the designation -spk are intended for users of SPARKvue software and those with the designation -cap are intended for users of PASCO Capstone software.
Grade Level: College • High School
Subject: Engineering
Activities
01) Build the Drawbridge
This activity has detailed directions for assembling the Motorized Drawbridge (ME-7028).
02) Raise and Lower the Drawbridge
Using Blockly code in PASCO Capstone or SPARKvue software, program the Drawbridge to move up and down.
03) Measure Loads in Top and Bottom Beams of the Drawbridge
Are the top and bottom beams under compression or tension? How do the loads change as the drawbridge moves up and down? In this investigation you will use the Load Cell to find out.
04) Measure Loads in Drawbridge Supports
A rectangular base supports the drawbridge. How do the loads at the front and back corners compare? How do they change as the drawbridge moves up and down? In this investigation you will use the Load Cell to find out.
05) Explore the Effect of the Drawbridge Counterweight
Why does the Drawbridge have a counterweight? What happens if you remove it? In this investigation you will find out.
06) Explore the Effect of Gear Ratios
Why does the Drawbridge have an 18-tooth gear driving a 72-tooth gear? What happens if you replace them with different gears? In this investigation you will find out.
07) Using the Load Cell as a Limit Switch
Learn to use a load cell and Blockly code to make the Drawbridge automatically stop when it touches the live load beam.
08) Raise the Drawbridge in Response to a Signal
Operate the Drawbridge in response to a signal. The signal comes from the 3-axis accelerometer in the //control.Node.
09) Introduction to the //control.Node
This activity explores all the features of the //control.Node in preparation for performing sense and control experiments with the Motorized Drawbridge, StructureBOT, and Motorized Crane.
10) Introduction to Stepper Motors
This activity explores the control of stepper motors using a //control.Node in preparation for performing sense and control experiments with the Motorized Drawbridge, the StructureBOT, and Motorized Crane.
11) Introduction to Structures
This activity explores how parts of the PASCO Structures are assembled.
