The Dynamics Cart and Track System with Motion Encoder allows students to explore kinematics, dynamics, momentum, and energy with the ease and precision of optical motion sensing. The Motion Encoder is an optical position sensing system that records cart motion and eliminates the need for a motion detector for cart-on-track activities. In addition to a Motion Encoder Cart and Receiver, this system includes an aluminum track (1.2 m or 2.2 m length), a low-friction plastic plunger cart, an ultra pulley, and all of the necessary attachment accessories.

How It Works

If you have ever been frustrated by the need to tweak the alignment of a motion detector, you will be pleased by the data your students collect using the Motion Encoder. An optical sensor beneath the dynamics cart senses the passage of the cart over a marked strip on the track. The position information is sent as an encoded IR signal to a receiver at the track’s end. By avoiding the possibility of stray sound reflections, this optical-only system provides excellent, repeatable, and noise-resistant motion data.

Because the position information is relayed by a narrow IR beam, the addition of a second Motion Encoder Cart and Receiver allows students to record the positions of two carts simultaneously. Now collision experiments to study momentum and energy are very easy to configure.

We have redesigned our carts to provide added durability, versatility, and instructional value.

• Four mass trays make it easy to vary the total cart mass.
• Super-elastic trigger button allows for new types of collisions.
• An anti-roll peg ensures that the cart rolls on the track but not off the table.
• Top tray allows for easy attachment of sensors and masses.
• Two cart colors (teal and grey) make it easier to discuss collisions.