Simple machines can be used to make work easier and faster. Compound machines are basically simple machines placed together to work together. Work is force acting on an object that moves it a distance (W=F*d). A simple machine must have some force applied to it to do work. Simple machines let us use a small force to beat bigger forces. They can also change the direction of the force. Keep in mind that a simple machine cannot create energy (F input * d input = F output * d output). If you want the force output to be big and distance output to be small, you need to have a big distance input and a small force input. If you want the force output to be small and the distance output to be large, then the force input needs to be large and the distance input to be small (Fd = Fd). There are three simple machines will be focus on for this project: lever, pulley, and wheel and axle. .
The lever is used in seesaws, shovels, hammers, and other everyday objects. A lever consists of three main parts: the fulcrum, rod, and the load the machine is acting on it. The fulcrum, or fixed point, allows the rod to move up and down freely. There are three classes of levers, but for this project a will be using the second-class lever. This lever allows us to use less force to act on the load. In other words, less force and more distance will be inputted to result in more force and less distance. This kind of lever in usually used to move heavy objects. The fulcrum is closer to the load to achieve this. This simple machine will probably be the best to lift the soda can. Most of the lever can be built out of wood. The fulcrum may be made out of metal or wood. .
The pulley is used in cranes. Pulleys usually lift the load. A pulley changes the direction in the force to do that. A pulley is used to change the direction of the force. It can also multiply forces depending on the type. In this project a type one and two pulley will be used.
