Thus, the cube with all its contents starts to move, which is very important to evoke the magic of randomness. But of course, we can only talk about magic until we know the science behind it. And to get to know it, let's examine the main structure in more detail.
Assemble and discover the working principle of the Random Generator.
- The model box contains a QR code that will direct you to the didactic guide about the mechanism, its working principle, main features, formulas and interesting tasks.
- Immerse yourself in augmented reality and see how the Random Generator works.
- Interact with the model using the Ugears specific AR application.
Discover the Random Generator and how it works
For generations, mankind has been wasting time in useless discussions about eternal questions such as: Whose turn is it to take the rubbish down? Whose turn is it to vacuum? And whose turn is it to do the washing up today?
Those who voluntarily take on all these household chores will have our eternal respect, but what if there is no volunteer? The fair thing to do would be to leave the decision to chance and draw lots. If you have ever bet on heads or tails, you have already come close to the theory of probability and its practical application.
Ugears now proposes an alternative to the classic coin solution. Not only is it elegant and fun, but it also brings an educational benefit. Now there is an answer to all your questions, thanks to the Random Generator from the Ugears STEM Lab Collection.
As the name suggests, the Random Generator is a device that generates random numbers and provides different random outcomes based on probability theory. And Ugears' STEM mechanical puzzle will show you exactly how it does it.
The main element of the Random Generator design is a cube inside which is an octahedron, which in turn contains a metal ball in order to provide weight. The construction is driven by a manually activated rack and pinion mechanism that provides power through a driven wheel that rotates a three-axis gear. Thus, the cube with all its contents starts to move, which is very important to evoke the magic of randomness. But of course, we can only talk about magic until we know the science behind it. And to know it, let's examine the main structure in more detail.
The vertices of the octahedron coincide with the sides of the cube. So when the energy of the system goes down and the system stops, gravity moves the metal ball to the lowest part of the octahedron. Due to the inclination of the sides within which it moves, it ends up in one of the vertices of the octahedron pulling it down. Whichever vertex is pointing downwards, the side of the cube to which it is attached will be directly below this vertex and parallel to the ground. Thus, the side of the cube carrying the answer will be on the opposite side and facing upwards.
Due to the symmetry of the freely rotating octahedron around its axis of rotation, the probability with which one of the vertices points downwards is practically identical. This leads us to the simple conclusion that the probability with which we obtain one of the six answers is 1/6 or 0.167.
Each side of the cube positioned by the vertex of the octahedron carries a message: "YES", or "TRY AGAIN", etc.
* An octahedron is a regular polyhedron with eight faces (equilateral triangles) and six vertices.
To assemble any set in the UGears STEM Lab series, you'll need a pocket study guide, an illustrated manual, wooden boards with pre-cut puzzle pieces and some additional materials. All this is included in the box, and it's all you need to get started. You won't need glue or anything else that doesn't come in the STEM lab box.
Once the project is ready, you can look beyond the assembly process, and study all the real-life applications of the pendulum through the augmented reality experience provided by UGears' STEM Lab application. Aim at the puzzle with your phone or tablet, and see how this mechanism is used in various machines. You can also zoom in with your fingers and see how it works from different angles.
The abbreviation STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It is an innovative approach to teaching these disciplines through a practical demonstration of the key principles of scientific law. The UGears STEM Lab series presents 3D models based on this learning method. Through a series of exciting experiments, children and adults will be able to more easily understand science, and the logic behind the mechanisms that surround us in our daily lives. In addition, the STEM method allows students to develop problem-solving skills, critical thinking, creativity and much more.
UGEARS creates attractive and imaginative mechanical models, made of wood, which move by themselves and can be assembled without using glue.
Their designs are inspired by real mechanisms and show their love for art and ingenuity. At UGEARS they think that building these beautiful models should also be fun, and they dedicate their best expertise to the field of engineering.
The meticulous testing and quality control of their products has only one goal: to ensure that their models provide a captivating and rewarding experience for the whole family.
This product includes CE marking in accordance with European legislation.