Power, Energy and Transportation
Power, Energy and Transportation Technology - PETT
This area of study uses a hands-on, multimedia, modular system approach of student directed learning and instruction. Students have the opportunity to explore a wide variety of module stations dealing with power and transportation. The staff is continually updating the curriculum to keep up with new developments. Below you will find a brief summary of the modules available in this program.
CNC Router Module
Students learn how to program and operate a Computer Numerically Controlled Router System. With it they can design various 2D and 3D projects. This will be especially useful for the TSA club in developing their CO2 dragster vehicles.
Several of the dentists in State College operate a similar machine for constructing tooth crowns.
Many Thanks to the Shears Family for the generous donation that made this possible.
Several of the dentists in State College operate a similar machine for constructing tooth crowns.
Many Thanks to the Shears Family for the generous donation that made this possible.
Space and Rocketry Technology
An application of math, physics, and problem solving skills to design, build, and test a model rocket.
Students will study the solar system, manned, and unmanned space flight.
Students will also learn the history of rockets and how a space station is constructed.
Activities include:
Building a model rocket.
Using computer programs and video to learn more about the planets in our solar system.
Flight Technology
A study of aerodynamics, the history of flight, and the design process of building an airplane. Math, physics, and problem solving skills will be applied to design, build, and fly paper and balsa wood planes.
Activities include:
Constructing and testing a paper plane.
Constructing and testing a rubber band powered airplane.
Fly several types of aircraft on the flight simulator.
Aerodynamics
A study of aircraft design and the principles of flight. Math, physics, and problem solving skills will be applied to design and build aerodynamic structures. Activities include:
Using a wind tunnel to demonstrate various aerodynamic structures.
Designing, testing, and modifying a wind section.
Use accurate test equipment to measure lift and drag.
See a sample video from Aerodynamics - Click Here
Research and Design Technology
Students will learn about the design process and how it is used to produce a product. Math, physics, and problem solving skills will be used to design, build, and test a car.
Activities include:
Working with a computer simulation program to design and test a car.
Design, build, and test a CO2 dragster.
Design and test a vehicle's suspension and impact reduction system using computer instrumentation and testing.
Energy and Power
A study of the internal combustion engine (4 cycle) and its role in our modern system of transportation.
Students will also learn about the systems approach to problem solving.
Activities include:
Disassemble and reassemble a 4 cycle engine.
Troubleshooting the systems of a 4 cycle engine.
Build and test a solar powered car.
Transportation Systems Technology
In this module, students will learn how land, air, marine, and fixed transportation systems help us move people and materials. Many aspects of transportation are covered including how the world is affected by human transportation methods.
Activities include:
Work with an internal combustion 2 cycle engine.
Troubleshooting the systems of a 2 cycle engine.
Design a mag-lev vehicle.
A study of the applications and theories of automation as related to industrial robots. Students will learn to control and program a robotic arm.
Activities include:
Program a computer to control a robotic arm.
Use a robotic arm to perform various tasks.
Use a computer to control various output and input devices such as a motor, light, switch, or power supply.
Pneumatic / Hydraulic Technology
A study of how air, water, oil, and other liquids are used to help us move, shape, and control the world around us. Students will use math, physics, and problem solving skills to do various tasks, and solve problems.
Activities include:
Experiments with various pneumatic devices.
Building machines from the various devices.
Using the pneumatic devices to solve problems.
Mechanisms (Simple Machines) Technology
A study of how levers, pulleys, gears, etc. are used to help us move, shape, and control the world around us. Math, physics, and problem solving skills are used to accomplish various tasks.
Activities include:
Using simple machines such as pulleys and levers to demonstrate the basic principles of mechanical power.
Building devices, such as mouse trap vehicles and catapults, with simple machines.
Electricity / Electronics Technology
A study of how electrical and electronic systems are used to help us move, shape, and control things around us. Students will learn about electronic technology through a systems approach to obtain an understanding of electrical/electronic devices.
Activities include:
Building and operating various electrical/electronic devices.
Building and operating various devices such as a drill press, or conveyor belt powered and / or controlled by the various electrical/electronic system.
Laser Technology & Applications
Students will be introduced to laser technology and it's industry. They will explore career pathways in laser technology along with completing numerous laser activities.
Activities include:
Laser lit water fountain
Security system
Light show with smoke hologram
CSI Crime Scene Investigation
Students will be introduced to the diverse array of bridge and beam design, construction and the concepts used in the creation of such structures. They will design their bridge and beams by means of sketching, mechanically drawing, and CADD (Compter Aided Drafting and Design). Students will also use West Point Bridge Builder to improve the design of their bridge. They will construct several beams and a bridge to be tested under a given psi until destruction occurs.
Activities include:
Drawings (rough, mechanically, & CADD)
Shape forming/building
Bridge
Beams
Sustainable Technology & Energy
Students will be introduced to the vast array of sustainable technologies, appropriate technologies, and alternative energies. They will explore how they are all intertwined and related and the effects they have on social, cultural, environmental, ethical, political, and economical life. They will accomplish this through the exploration of greywater collections systems and the design and development of their own. They will study ecosystems, recycling, and composting and how simple tasks or mistakes can save or create life threatening situations. Students will then complete the unit with calculating, designing, and developing their own geodesic dome.