(Full teacher resource documents are included in the PDF)
Lesson Focus Lesson focuses on how infrared technology is used by engineers creating equipment and system for a variety of industries. Teams of students explore the application of infrared in remote controls, test materials that encourage or prevent infrared transmission, and develop systems that allow transmission of infrared in restricted environments.
Lesson Synopsis
The Infrared Investigations lesson explores how engineers have to test components or systems within a product to make sure it meets customer needs. Students explore infrared and products or systems in which engineers have integrated infrared technology. Student teams are given a challenge of testing the limitations of infrared in a standard television remote control to devise a way to point infrared around a corner or between two rooms.
Age Levels: 8-18
Objectives
Learn about infrared technology.
Learn about how engineers incorporate different technologies in product and system designs.
Learn about teamwork and working in groups.
Anticipated Learner Outcomes
As a result of this activity, students should develop an understanding of:
infrared light and technology
engineering product development and testing
problem solving
teamwork
Lesson Activities
Students learn how infrared technology has been integrated into products and systems serving most industries. Student teams test the limitations of infrared using a television remote control and devise a plan for adapting infrared to work around a corner or between two rooms. Teams test their plan, troubleshoot, evaluate their own work and that of other students, and present to the class.
