Static and Kinematic Analysis of the Scissor Lift STEM toy
STEM is an acronym that stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. It represents a broad educational focus aimed at developing problem-solving skills, critical thinking, and innovation. STEM education integrates these four disciplines to encourage students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of how various fields interconnect. This study focuses on the static and kinematic analysis of a scissor lift STEM toy, utilizing both analytical methods and design software simulations. The first objective is to develop a detailed 3D model of the toy’s scissor lift mechanism based on physical measurements and observations. The model is then analysed using computer-aided design (CAD) software to evaluate its static equilibrium and motion characteristics. The results from the software simulations are compared with the analytical findings. The study contributes to understanding the mechanical behaviour of scissor lift mechanisms and demonstrates the advantages and limitations of different analysis approaches.