Man Made World Lab by Engineering Concepts Curriculum Project

  • Thread starter Thread starter Joseph M. Zias
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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on sourcing a Lab Kit for the vintage "Man Made World" series by the Engineering Concepts Curriculum Project (ECCP), specifically the analog computer component. The original analog computer used was the AMF 665/D, with a larger demonstration model AMF 775 also mentioned. These kits and components are rare due to widespread disposal or repurposing by schools. Potential acquisition channels include eBay, university surplus auctions, and engineering education archives at institutions like Purdue and MIT. Modern analog computer kits exist around $500, but building a custom unit is a cost-effective alternative.

PREREQUISITES

  • Understanding of analog computers, specifically models AMF 665/D and AMF 775
  • Familiarity with the Engineering Concepts Curriculum Project (ECCP) materials
  • Knowledge of secondary engineering education lab setups from the 1970s
  • Experience with sourcing vintage educational equipment via platforms like eBay and university surplus auctions

NEXT STEPS

  • Research availability and specifications of the AMF 665/D and AMF 775 analog computers
  • Explore engineering education archives at Purdue University and MIT for ECCP documentation
  • Investigate current analog computer kits priced around $500 for modern alternatives
  • Develop skills in building custom analog computer hardware as a cost-saving measure

USEFUL FOR

Secondary engineering educators, vintage technology collectors, curriculum developers interested in historical engineering education tools, and hobbyists focused on analog computing hardware restoration or replication.

Joseph M. Zias
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Does anyone have or know where I could buy a Lab Kit for the old series Man Made World by Engineering Concepts Curriculum Project. I have a lab book and my set of completed labs from 1972 but I would like to find the lab materials, including the analog computer.
 
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That curriculum was genuinely ahead of its time for secondary engineering education. The analog computer component is going to be the hardest piece to track down since most schools either discarded or repurposed them decades ago. eBay occasionally surfaces old educational lab equipment from that era, and university surplus auctions are worth checking too. The ECCP materials sometimes show up in engineering education archives at places like Purdue or MIT if you need documentation.
 
Thanks for the hints. I have a copy of the lab book and my old 1972 lab notes. I took a course called Advanced High School Labs that used the ECCP material. I have found the analog computer was an AMF 665/D. There was also a larger class demo unit, I think 775. There are new analog computer kits available in the $500 range but I could build one for a lot less. I will keep on the lookout for an AMF for the time being. I later did my thesis using a Systron Donner 10/20. Hmm, where did 50 years go?
 

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