Eicher service centre – In our second stage of the inquiry that is in the finding out phase, the students are getting to know how to identify the simple machines around us and also are able to figure out whether other machines are built using simple machines. In order to make them appreciate the applications of simple machines we decided to take them out on a field trip to a HMV(heavy motor vehicle) service station. The Eicher service station which is located at a distance of 2kms from our school campus was an ideal destination to make our students experience the power of simple machines.
On reaching the station the students were very excited to see our very own school buses stationed there for the regular maintenance services. We were introduced to Mr. Srinivas and Mr. Manish Kumar who took us around the station.
We first went to see the engine of a bus. It was a 4-stroke diesel engine and Mr. Srinivas explained about the various parts of the engine. The students were introduced to new terms like crankshaft and FIP (Fuel injection pump) and had lot of questions about the same. They were keen to know how the engine works; they questioned about the location of the engine and also wanted to know as to why we need to oil the engines. The students could easily identify the simple machines like the wheel and axle (gears), screws, levers, pulleys that made up the different parts of the engine.
Students were shown the compound pulley system and how it eased the lifting of heavy engines in and out of the automobiles.
The students could also see how the hydraulic trolley jack was used to lift heavy buses. The students could identify that the jack in turn is made-up of simple machines like bolts, wheel and axle.
They were then taken to the tool room where they could see the display of a wide range of tools like wrenches, spanners, air guns and many more.
The students were curious to know about the black sticky substance that could be found all over the station. They learnt that the sticky substance is called as grease and its primary function is to reduce friction by lubricating the parts.
This field trip allowed the students to see the practical applications of simple machines and enabled to deepen their understanding by visual demonstrations.
Some images of the trip:
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