Wireless Smart Cart Aims To Allow More Accurate Measurement in Physics Experiments

Pasco Scientific is introducing a new Smart Cart, a low-friction cart with sensors that will allow students to collect data from experiments to learn physics concepts. With the use of the sensors, students can transfer information acquired in lab experiments directly to their devices, simplifying lab setup and allowing teachers and students more time to perform their experiments.

Students can collect data on position and displacement, speed and velocity, one-dimensional motion, acceleration, Newton's laws, friction, kinetic energy, conservation of momentum, elastic and inelastic collisions and conservation of energy.

The Smart Cart's onboard sensors can transmit data wirelessly to any kind of device using Bluetooth.

The cart is based on an ABS body with nearly frictionless wheels. It includes a sensor that measures force, a three-axis accelerometer, motion encoder for measuring position and velocity, a rubber bumper, magnetic bumper and mass tray. There is also a hook, three-position spring plunger, Velcro tabs, a rechargeable battery and USB port and cable for charging.

The new cart is expected to be available in June (in either red or blue) for a special price to U.S. educators of $159.

Pasco Scientific has created other innovative teaching products to help students conduct scientific experiments. This one is different, according to company representatives, because there are no wires, thus improving measurement because there are fewer impediments to experiment outcomes.

Earlier this year, the Smart Cart was named a finalist in the Global Education Supplies and Solutions Innovation Product Award.

About the Author

Michael Hart is a Los Angeles-based freelance writer and the former executive editor of THE Journal.

Featured

  • pattern of icons for math and reading, including a pi symbol, calculator, and open book

    HMH Launches Personalized Path Solution

    Adaptive learning company HMH has introduced HMH Personalized Path, a K-8 ELA and math product that combines intervention curriculum, adaptive practice, and assessment for students of all achievement levels.

  • red brick school building with a large yellow "AI" sign above its main entrance

    New National Academy for AI Instruction to Provide Free AI Training for Educators

    In an effort to "transform how artificial intelligence is taught and integrated into classrooms across the United States," the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), in partnership with Microsoft, OpenAI, Anthropic, and the United Federation of Teachers, is launching the National Academy for AI Instruction, a $23 million initiative that will provide access to free AI training and curriculum for all AFT members, beginning with K-12 educators.

  • laptop on a desk with its screen displaying numerous colorful educational app icons

    Survey Finds Majority of Schools Using 10 to 15 Educational Apps

    A new report points to the fragmented digital landscape of educational apps in use at schools and districts across the country.

  • laptop displaying AI-powered educational content

    Kira Introduces AI-Generated Lesson Tool

    AI company Kira has announced a new AI-powered lesson generation tool that it says delivers complete, standards-aligned lessons that are personalized to each student.