INTRODUCTION
Extended the learning. Through the Portable Power Challenge, students will design a solution for an engineering problem through an evidence-based, collaborative effort, and socially driven process.
QUESTIONS TO XPLORE
- How do safety scientists and engineers solve problems?
- Can we see the energy in a single button cell battery?
Safety scientists ask why a phenomenon happens. Safety engineers ask how they can solve the problem and keep people safe. Both ask how they can design and communicate solutions. The button cell battery is a case study in science and engineering for safety.
PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED
- Lithium-ion button batteries can cause sever injuries when swallowed.
Electronic devices are a part of daily life. And they’re getting smaller, slimmer, and sleeker. But inside the battery compartment of mini remote controls, small calculators, watches, remote keyless entry, ameless candles, singing greeting cards, and other electronics, may be a very powerful coin-sized button cell battery. When swallowed, these button cell batteries can get stuck in the throat and cause severe burns. Small children often have easy access to these devices, and many parents do not know there is a risk.