Name: Shannon Mowbray

Foundations of Technology
Unit 4 Lesson 1: The Core Technologies
File 4.1.1: Categorizing the Core Technologies

Period: 1

Date: 05/12/16

Categorizing the Core Technologies

Directions: In small groups, watch the video of the working Rube Goldberg device and try to identify
subsystems of the device that use core technologies to function. Core technologies enable subsystems
within a larger, more complex system to function and are considered the building blocks of all technology
systems.
In the table below, describe at least one example of how each core technology is used in the device. Give
which larger subsystem (technological, social, and environmental) would it be in as well
Check one box
Core
Technology
Mechanical

Example of How Used

The toilet roll with flags on it that rotated using its own kinetic and
potential energy down the path between the sticks

Structural

The scooter with a cup on it to hold and transport the metal ball

Electrical

Starting the system using an electric guitar

Fluid

Moving the ball or object with a burst of air from an inflated

balloon

Optical

Using a laser to blind your partner in the Rube Goldberg

Having the ball initiate the laser which will shine the light on
another part of the machine to initiate it
Heating up popcorn on a stove and allowing the popped kernels to
escape and set off the next part of the machine

Material

Creating a pulley system with string, metal hooks attached to the

wall and wood

Electronic

Using a phone app to automatically start the system on a timer

Bio-Technology

Using a mouse on a wheel to power the movement of part of the

system

Thermal

X
X

If your group did not see one of the core technologies represented, identify which core technology you
think was missing and describe how it could be included in the device depicted in the video.

2013 International Technology and Engineering Educators AssociationFoundations of Technology, Third

Edition /
Technology, Engineering, and Design