I can create a mechanism plan that shows parts, motion, inputs, outputs, and how the design will be tested.
POE Unit 1 • Lesson 1.14
Concept Sketching and Mechanism Planning
Focus question: How does a build plan make a mechanism easier to construct, test, and improve?
Mission Briefing
Today’s Plan
A focused lesson sequence that builds toward the VEX Rover Mechanisms Challenge.
Opening promptConcept voteAerospace linkCompare optionsEvidence challengeQuick checkExit ticket
Lesson Targets
What You Will Be Able to Do
Labeled mechanism sketch and build plan
The plan communicates geometry, components, motion, interfaces, dimensions, assembly order, and how the concept will be tested.
Activity Flow
How the Lesson Moves
This page highlights the lesson elements you need for practice, evidence, and submission.
1. Sketch the motion path
Show input, transmission components, output, and direction of movement.
2. Plan interfaces
Label shafts, supports, fasteners, spacers, attachment points, and critical dimensions.
3. Plan the build and test
Identify assembly order, likely failure points, and the first verification test.
Lesson Interactive
Audit a Mechanism Build Plan
Select every item that a second team would need to build and test the concept without guessing.
Concept Package
The sketch shows the general shape and lists the motor and gears, but the team must decide what additional information is essential before building.
A useful engineering sketch communicates geometry, motion, interfaces, and verification—not just appearance.
Required Additions
Choose information needed to manufacture, assemble, move, and verify the concept.
Today’s Work
Main Deliverable
Labeled Mechanism Sketch and Build Plan
Create a build-ready concept package for the selected rover mechanism.
- Include at least two views or one clear isometric sketch with labels and critical dimensions.
- Add a parts list, assembly sequence, and first-test procedure.
Exit Ticket
Mission Debrief
One way today’s lesson connects to an aerospace mechanism or VEX rover system.
One type of evidence you could use to support a design decision.
One question you still have about mechanisms, energy, power, or the Unit 1 challenge.
Resources
Lesson Resources
Principles of Engineering
Return to the POE course hub for units, resources, certifications, and current course information.
VEX Rover Mechanisms Challenge
Use this unit project context when connecting the lesson to mechanism planning, testing, and design review evidence.