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Technological Systems

Copyright © Texas Education Agency, 2012. All rights reserved.

Innovative Applications of Technology in Engineering - Part 3

Bell Work Activity

Directions: Please take out a sheet of paper

and answer the following questions.

a. Make a list of 5 modern-day devices that reduce labor in our day-to-day lives.

b. List 7 ways technology helps us communicate.

c. Identify 3 inventions that are in widespread use today that were invented outside the United states.

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a. There are several important terms and

definitions students need to know.

b. Students will now complete the matching definitions handout on Technological Systems;

Students may work in groups (pair-share)

Warm-Up Activity Engineering and Technology Terms

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Emerging applications of technology in engineering

3-D Printing: A new innovative form of manufacturing where a product is created layer by layer on a 3-D Printer.

Alternative Fuel Vehicles: Vehicles that run on fuels that are not petroleum based. Many are already in production.

Genetic Engineering: A technique used in biotechnology to combine genetic material between different species to change the characteristics of the species.

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Factors affecting the evolution of technology

The Evolution of Technology has been driven by the need to find more efficient means of replacing human labor.

The first stage involved the development of the tool which gave us a mechanical advantage in completing a physical task.

The second stage involved the development of machines which replaced human physical effort and gave the operator control over the process.

The third stage, automation, replaced human control with computerized processes.

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Manufacturing practices affected by changes in technology

The growth in our human population drove the demand for a variety of products. Systems were needed to meet the demands more efficiently.o Textile industry production was improved by the

invention of the cotton gin. *

o The creation of interchangeable parts in the manufacturing process improved output.

o Communications networks were improved with use of the telegraph.

o Railroad systems increased commerce across the U.S.6

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The Evolution of Manufacturing Manufacturing has evolved from the use of hand tools to

the use of machine tools. Today we have the ability to create an abundance of goods along with the leisure time to enjoy them.

• “Nothing contributed more to our present way of life than the invention of the steam engine and the boring mill that made the engine possible. They gave tremendous impetus to the Industrial Revolution, which, in only 150 years, generated far greater gains in material welfare than humans experienced in

all previous history.” 1

Another factor in our success of manufacturing evolution is development of machine cutting tools. These tools allow the creation of most of the other tools used in manufacturing.

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The international effects of technology

Since ancient times, advances in technology have had dramatic impact on human societies. Consider the advantages of iron/steel weapons, gunpowder, the horse and stirrup, rail systems, air planes, computers and medicines. ….the creation of new technology anywhere in the world affects

the rest of the world 2…

Many countries contribute to the Global advancement of technology. Consider the international space station and the growth of manufacturing in Asia. It’s important to manage the growth carefully and be prepared to handle events like the B. P. Oil spill or the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant accident.

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