MECHANISMS

MECHANISMS

Definition: mechanisms are devices that transmit and transform force and motion from a driving force (input) to an output.

They allow us to carry out certain tasks more easily and more efficiently.

Unit summary

1.- Transmitting motion:

1.1 Linear: Lever (class 1, class 2, class 3), fixed pulley, movable pulley, compound pulley.

1.2 Circular: Friction drives, pulleys with belts, gear mechanisms and cogwheels, worm gear, gear mechanisms with a chain, gear train, pulley train with belts.

2.- Transforming motion:

2.1 From rotary to linear: Rack and pinion system, nut and bolt system, winch and crank handle.

2.2 Fron rotary into reciprocating motion: Crank-link-slider, crank shaft, cam and eccentric cam.

3.- Controlling and directing motion: Ratchet, brake (disc, band and drum).

4.- Storing energy: Spring (compression, traction, torsion), shock absorber, suspension system.

5.- Joining: Clutch (friction or with teeth), joining (fixed or movable).

6.- Support: Bushing, bearings.

Key words:

Gear: mechanism used to change the speed or direction of transmitted motion.

Cam: rotating object that transmits motion to a rod in contact with it.