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MiniMouseLab: Instructions
NOTE: This Web activity requires a Java-enabled
browser,
such as Netscape or Internet Explorer version 4 or later.
If you are using a Mac please use Internet Explorer for best results.
Proceed to MiniMouseLab
Here, you have a chance to use a simulation to operate an elevator,
see its motion, and examine the graphs that describe the motion
you produce. While you are exploring the simulation, try to remember
the forces that you have experienced in a REAL elevator ride.
What You See
On the right of the screen you can see the cross section of a building
containing an elevator shaft and cab. To the left of the building
are two graphs, one for position vs. time (where the elevator cab
is located) and one for speed vs. time (how fast the cab is moving).
You will also see three controls:
"Replay " plays back the trip you created.
"Stop" stops the simulation before it is over.
"Reset" lets you start over.
What You Do
If you put your cursor on the elevator cab, you can click and
drag the cab to different floors in the building. The graphs will
provide records of the elevator's motion. Experiment a bit with
the program.
Things To Try
1. Start with the elevator on the ground floor and press the reset
button. Now move the elevator upward, stopping at each floor. You
may need a little practice since the need to make the passengers
feel comfortable means that you can't start or stop too quickly.
Examine your graphs. Did you move at the same speed between floors?
Did you start up and slow down (accelerate) the same way each time?
2. Try moving the cab at a constant speed from the ground floor
all the way up to the top floor. You may need a little practice
this time too! Examine your graphs. Did you move at a constant speed?
How do you know?
3. When you have a satisfactory result for either task, press the
replay button and watch the motion of the elevator cab. Is the motion
smooth? How would it feel to be riding in the elevator cab with
you as the operator?
NOTE: This Web activity requires a Java-enabled
browser,
such as Netscape or Internet Explorer version 4 or later.
If you are using a Mac please use Internet Explorer for best results.
Proceed to MiniMouseLab
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