Humans are always evolving and adapting, especially when it comes to developing new technologies. There are many instances of humans using technology to adapt their bodies. Can smart materials be used to mimic human muscle? Students will test a ‘smart spring’ and try to develop ideas to use the technology in a prosthetic or robotic arm. This activity can really bring science and design technology together, and highlights just how important and diverse engineering is. This is a great activity for STEM Clubs or classes. The initial experiment can be done in one session. The activity can be extended to several weeks by including the design and make focused task.
Working in groups, students should use the diagrams in the resource to help them to set up an experiment which uses an electrical current to test masses on a spring. They should investigate whether the speed at which the spring contracts is affected by the amount of mass and use a stopwatch to measure the time taken for the spring to contract. Does the spring always go back to its original shape? How could they use what they have learnt to make an artificial muscle for robots? The resource contains lots of questions to ask of students when they are doing this activity as well as extension activities, explanations and handy hints for those delivering the activity. It also has a case study of someone who uses prosthetic technologies in their everyday job.
... understanding a vast range of smart materials and using them to find solutions to problems is just one dynamic aspect of engineering.
Engineers with an interest in design create the initial ideas and ‘blueprints’ for systems, structures and products, testing models rigorously to ensure they work, using computer aided design to help. Materials engineers develop new products and improve existing ones. Have a look at related university courses at www.ucas.com
Entry requirements include A Levels, Advanced Diplomas and Scottish Advanced Highers.
Related fields: Mechanical engineering There are many apprenticeships in engineering and manufacturing technologies. It is a very broad field. Some of the main manufacturing industries covered include textiles, food, furniture, glass, metals and printing. Visit www.apprenticeships.org.uk for more details.
In Scotland visit www.apprenticeshipsinscotland.com and in Wales wales.gov.uk/apprenticeships
Resources
Creating captivating cornflour invites pupils to discover the properties of this curious material in a fun, but often messy activity.
Engineering enables: running blades explores the forces in moving systems and materials, in the context of designing a prosthetic limb
The right switch: discover Quantum Tunnelling Composite and technical textiles. As we invest in more mobile technology, we run the risk of bulging pockets and heavy handbags. This activity looks at finding a solution to this problem.
Moving house: investigating earthquakes and building materials. Did you know that buildings move? What happens to buildings in an earthquake or strong wind?
How is food packaged? Introducing thermochromatic paints and their application.
Introducing ideas about keeping materials and tools cool in space.
As we try to use more renewable sources of energy and reduce our use of fossil fuels, it is important to ensure that electricity gets to us in an easy but efficient way
Cycling grows in importance as we look towards sustainable transport to save energy.
Milking it: Many products bought today are made from or contain plastic. How is it made, and what applications does it have?
Explore the role of STEM in how we hear sounds, record and play back music
Learn how sensor systems (motes) can be used to monitor the environment outside an aircraft.
This resource is designed to help students learn about the STEM involved in designing and making their own hovercraft.
Making waves explores how engineers have applied their knowledge of waves to make life better.
This equation impacts our lives in many areas, from computing to the shape of a football.
A STEM learning and teaching resource that shows how engineers have applied their knowledge to improve the security of the internet.
Explore a variety of magical maths activities, from multiplication tips to card tricks.
Are we connected? is a STEM teaching and learning resource that explores engineering through the technology we communicate and connect with.
Light Saver is a STEM resource that explores new technology developed by scientists and engineers that uses the properties of light to help save lives.
Power Up! looks at different types of energy, energy in engineering, the importance of electricity and how it is generated. It investigates different types of renewable energy sources through a number of hands-on practical activities.