NOKUTENDA SHAVA 4A1 3037
PHYSICS PROJECT 1
Physics Project Title:
Investigating and Improving the Mechanical Advantage and Efficiency of Tools Used by
Ancillary Staff at Monte Cassino Girls High School
Stage 1: Problem Identification
1.1 Description of the Problem, Innovation, or Identified Gap
At Monte Cassino Girls High School, ancillary staff members rely heavily on manual tools
such as wheelbarrows, hoes, and simple levers for their daily tasks. Many of these tools are
outdated, worn, or poorly designed, making physical work unnecessarily difficult. The lack of
mechanical advantage and low efficiency leads to fatigue and slower work rates.
The gap lies in the lack of scientific assessment and maintenance of these tools. No
systematic effort has been made to evaluate how well the tools perform in terms of
mechanical advantage (MA) and efficiency. This project will introduce a scientific approach
to assess the tools and propose modifications or replacements that improve work output.
1.2 Brief Statement of Intent
This project aims to:
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Investigate the mechanical advantage and efficiency of selected tools used by
ancillary staff.
Identify the most inefficient tools and propose realistic improvements or
alternatives.
Promote a science-based approach to enhance productivity and reduce physical strain.
1.3 Design or Project Specifications/Parameters
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Tools Investigated: Wheelbarrow, hoe (first-class lever), and mop system.
Measured Quantities: Load (N), effort (N), effort arm and load arm (cm), distances
moved.
Formulas Used:
o Mechanical Advantage (MA) = Load / Effort
o Velocity Ratio (VR) = Distance moved by effort / Distance moved by load
o Efficiency (%) = (MA / VR) × 100
Constraints: Limited access to advanced measuring tools, environmental factors,
wear of tools.
NOKUTENDA SHAVA 4A1 3037
PHYSICS PROJECT 1
Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas
2.1 Evidence of Related Ideas
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Simple Machines Theory: Explains how levers, wheelbarrows, and pulleys reduce
effort using mechanical advantage.
Case Study (Rural School in Chimanimani): Introduction of double-wheel barrows
reduced effort by 30% and increased load capacity.
Physics Textbooks: Mechanical systems lose efficiency due to friction, deformation,
or misalignment.
2.2 Analysis of Ideas (Advantages & Disadvantages)
TOOL/IDEA
Single-wheel barrow
ADVANTAGES
Easy to maneuver
Dual-wheel barrow
More stable, less effort is
needed
Lifts heavy loads with little
effort
Pulley system
DISADVANTAGES
Unstable, low efficiency on
uneven ground
It is heavy and it is more
expensive
It is a complex setup, it is
rarely available
2.3 Quality of Presentation of Ideas
Information is well-organized and relevant. Ideas are based on both theoretical physics and
real-world applications.
Stage 3: Generation of Ideas
3.1 Evidence of Possible Solutions
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Modifying existing wheelbarrow with longer handles or second wheel.
Replacing hoe handles with longer wooden extensions to increase effort arm.
Introducing basic pulley systems for lifting heavy items like water buckets.
Training staff on proper mechanical use of tools to reduce energy loss.
3.2 Advantages & 3.3 Disadvantages
SOLUTION
Dual-Wheel barrow
ADVANTAGE
It increases stability and
efficiency
DISADVANTAGES
It can be expensive
NOKUTENDA SHAVA 4A1 3037
PHYSICS PROJECT 1
Longer hoe handle
It increases leverage
Staff training
It improves usage
technique
It can be awkward to use
in tight spaces
It requires time
commitment
3.4 Overall Quality of Illustrations
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Diagrams included for:
o Lever system showing effort and load arms
o Cross-section of modified wheelbarrow
o Pulley lifting mechanism
Clear labeling and real measurements to support explanations
Stage 4: Development or Refinement
4.1 Indication of Choice
Wheelbarrow modification with dual wheels and longer handles was chosen as the best
solution.
4.2 Justification of Choice
This solution directly reduces the force needed to push a load, increases stability, and
maintains simplicity. It is affordable, practical, and easy to implement using locally available
materials.
4.3 Three Developments
1. Initial Idea: Add a second wheel for balance
2. Refined Design: Adjust handle angle to improve ergonomics
3. Final Design: Lightweight metal frame with rubber-gripped long handles
4.4 Overall Presentation
Developments are well documented with step-by-step diagrams, efficiency comparisons, and
user feedback from ancillary staff.
NOKUTENDA SHAVA 4A1 3037
PHYSICS PROJECT 1
Stage 5: Presentation of Final Solutions
5.1 Presentation of Artefact
A working model of the modified wheelbarrow was constructed using metal rods and an old
bicycle wheel. It was tested under load with measured effort.
5.2 Presentation of a Service
A "Tool Efficiency Assessment Guide" was also created as a reference for staff and
management to check tool condition and mechanical performance.
5.3 Presentation of Products
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Photos of before-and-after tests
Efficiency calculation charts
Model of the redesigned wheelbarrow
Stage 6: Evaluation & Recommendation
6.1 Relevance to Statement of Intent
The project successfully achieved its objective of improving tool efficiency. Staff reported
reduced effort and more balanced loads using the improved wheelbarrow.
6.2 Challenges Encountered
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Lack of digital force meters led to approximated measurements using spring balances
Limited funding for materials
Weather delays during outdoor testing
Solutions: Used manual methods for measurement, repurposed materials, scheduled tests
during dry periods
6.3 Recommendations
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Scale the project to include more tools (e.g., mops, buckets, rakes)
Seek support from NGOs or school alumni for funding improvements
NOKUTENDA SHAVA 4A1 3037
PHYSICS PROJECT 1
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Conduct annual tool performance reviews using the developed guide
Encourage regular staff input on tool comfort and usability