Cams in a product
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can identify how cams work in an automata.
Key learning points
- Simple cams can create complicated movements.
- Existing products can inspire future automata.
- Card prototypes can create simple automata.
Keywords
Automaton - a mechanical toy that uses a cam mechanism to animate a character or scene - plural-automata
Cam - a shaped disc attached to an axle
Follower - a bar that follows the movement of the cam disc
Slide - a device that holds the follower in position
Common misconception
All automata create the same up and down linear output.
The position of the follower and the size, shape and number of cams can create a range of movements.
Teacher tip
Wooden cams can be provided as an alternative to cardboard versions. It may be beneficial to pre-cut the dowel lengths (if used) if children are not familiar with using handsaws. Alternatively, paper drinking straws or art straws could be used but these may not work with pre-cut wooden cams.
Equipment
Please see additional materials document for a list of tools and materials needed for this lesson.
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Lesson video
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Prior knowledge starter quiz
6 Questions
Q1.Which part of a cam mechanism is indicated in this diagram?
Q2.Which words can be used to describe the output movement of a cam mechanism?
Q3.Which part of a cam mechanism supports the follower, keeping it in place?
Q4.Match the cam type to the description.
elongated shape with a central hole
circular shape with an off-centre hole
spiral shape known for its 'drop' motion
elongated shape, wider at one end
Q5.Why does a cam disc need to fit tightly to the axle?
Q6.Which of these products has a cam mechanism?
Assessment exit quiz
6 Questions
Q1.In a cam mechanism, what are the cam discs fixed to?
Q2.Which parts of a cam mechanism are affected by changing the size or shape of a cam?
Q3.Which of these materials could be used to make an axle?
Q4.Which part of a cam mechanism on a prototype automaton is shown in this image?
Q5.Complete the sentence. In a cam mechanism, complicated movements can be created by a simple __________ motion.
Q6.Order the parts of a cam mechanism to show the order in which they are affected by the input movement.
To help you plan your 6 design and technology lesson on: Cams in a product, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 6 design and technology lesson on: Cams in a product, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom. Plus, you can set it as homework or revision for pupils and keep their learning on track by sharing an online pupil version of this lesson.
Explore more key stage 2 design and technology lessons from the Cams: automata unit, dive into the full primary design and technology curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.