Simple Mechanisms

Simple Mechanisms

Contents

Define the key terms such as kinematics, kinetics, and dynamics etc 2

Recall various types of Relative motion 5

Define and classify Kinematic Pair 7

Define the term Kinematic chain 8

Describe the relationship between Number of Links and Number of Pairs 9

Recall the types of joints used in a Chain 10

Define the term Mechanism 10

Recall Degree-of-Freedom or Mobility 10

Describe the Kutzbach criterion and its applications 10

Describe Grubler’s criterion for plane mechanism 10

Define the term Inversion of Mechanism 10

List and recall types of Kinematic chain 10

State Grashof’s Law 10

Describe the practical inversions of Four bar chain 10

Recall the Inversions of Single slider crank chain in various cases such as cylinder is fixed, the crank is fixed, etc 10

Recall the Inversions of Single slider crank chain Pendulum pump and Gnome engine etc 10

Describe different Quick return motion mechanisms 10

Recall the Inversions of Double slider crank chain such as Elliptical trammel etc 10

Recall the term Kinematics of Machine
Kinematics of Machine is a branch of mechanical engineering that deals with the study of motion of objects and how they change with time. It is concerned with the analysis of movement, velocity, and acceleration of mechanical systems, without considering the forces that cause the motion.

In simple words, Kinematics of Machine is the study of how objects move and change position over time. It covers topics such as motion analysis, velocity, acceleration, and the description of motion in terms of displacement, velocity, and acceleration.

The goal of kinematics is to describe the motion of objects using mathematical equations and to understand how objects move and change position. Kinematics is used in a wide range of applications, including robotics, biomechanics, automotive engineering, and computer animation.

The main objectives of kinematics of machine include:

  1. To describe the motion of objects using mathematical equations
  2. To understand how objects move and change position
  3. To predict the motion of objects based on the laws of motion and the initial conditions
  4. To design mechanical systems that meet specific performance criteriaKinematics is a fundamental aspect of mechanical engineering, and it is important for engineers to have a strong understanding of kinematic principles in order to design and analyze complex mechanical systems.

Define the key terms such as kinematics, kinetics, and dynamics etc

1. Kinematics:

Kinematics is the branch of mechanics that deals with the description of motion without considering the forces that cause the motion. It focuses on the study of the position, velocity, and acceleration of an object without considering the forces that cause the motion. Key concepts in kinematics include displacement, velocity, acceleration, and time.

2. Kinetics:

Kinetics is the branch of mechanics that deals with the study of the causes of motion, including the forces and torques acting on an object and the motion resulting from those forces. It is concerned with the description of motion and its causes, specifically the forces and torques acting on an object and the motion resulting from those forces. Key concepts in kinetics include force, mass, acceleration, and Newton’s laws of motion.

3. Dynamics:

Dynamics is the branch of mechanics that combines kinematics and kinetics to understand the motion of objects and the forces causing the motion. It is concerned with the study of how an object moves and the forces that cause the motion, and how these forces interact with the object’s mass and velocity to produce the observed motion.

4. Statics:

Statics is a branch of mechanics that deals with the study of objects that are not in motion or are at rest. It is concerned with the forces acting on an object and the equilibrium of those forces, meaning the object is either at rest or moving with constant velocity. Key concepts in statistics include force, torque, center of mass, and equilibrium.

5. Mechanics:

Mechanics is a branch of physics that deals with the study of motion and its causes. It includes the study of kinematics, kinetics, dynamics, and statics, and how these branches of mechanics can be used to understand the motion of objects in a variety of physical systems, from simple objects like balls to complex systems like the motion of the planets in our solar system.


Define and classify the Kinematic Link
1. Kinematic Link:
A kinematic link is an element in a mechanical system that connects two or more parts and provides a means of transmitting motion between them. It is a component that can move relative to other components in the system and is responsible for transmitting motion from one part to another. Kinematic links are essential components of many mechanical systems, such as machines, robots, and engines.

Classification of Kinematic Links:

Kinematic links can be classified into various types based on their shape, function, and degree of freedom. Here are some of the most common types of kinematic links:

  • Rigid link: A rigid link is a solid component that maintains a constant shape and size and does not deform under load. It is the simplest form of a kinematic link and is commonly used in mechanical systems.
  • Flexible link: A flexible link is a component that can bend or deform under load. It is used in systems that require a degree of flexibility, such as in robot arms.
  • Revolute joint: A revolute joint is a type of kinematic link that allows for rotational motion about an axis. It is commonly found in machines and robots that require rotary motion.
  • Prismatic joint: A prismatic joint is a type of kinematic link that allows for linear motion along an axis. It is commonly used in machines and robots that require linear motion.
  • Spherical joint: A spherical joint is a type of kinematic link that allows for rotational motion in any direction. It is commonly used in machines and robots that require a high degree of mobility.
  • Universal joint: A universal joint is a type of kinematic link that allows for rotational motion at an angle. It is commonly used in systems that require flexibility and mobility, such as in vehicle steering systems.
  • Cylindrical joint: A cylindrical joint is a type of kinematic link that allows for linear motion along an axis and rotational motion about that axis. It is commonly used in machines and robots that require combined linear and rotational motion.

These are just a few of the many types of kinematic links that can be found in mechanical systems. The classification of kinematic links is important for understanding how motion is transmitted in a mechanical system and for designing and analysing mechanical systems.

Recall various types of Relative motion

  1. Translation:Translation is a type of relative motion in which an object moves from one position to another without any rotation. This type of motion can be described by the distance travelled, the direction of motion, and the time taken to travel that distance. Examples of translation include the motion of a car on a straight road or the motion of a ball rolling on a flat surface.
  2. Rotation:Rotation is a type of relative motion in which an object moves about a fixed axis. This type of motion can be described by the angle of rotation, the direction of rotation, and the time taken for that rotation. Examples of rotation include the motion of a spinning top, the rotation of the Earth around its axis, or the rotation of a wheel.
  3. General Plane Motion:

General plane motion is a type of relative motion in which an object moves in a combination of translation and rotation. This type of motion can be described by the path of the object’s center of mass and the orientation of the object as it moves. Examples of general plane motion include the motion of a pendulum swinging back and forth or the motion of a gymnast performing a complex routine.

  1. Projectile Motion:

Projectile motion is a type of relative motion in which an object is launched into the air and moves under the influence of gravity. This type of motion can be described by the object’s initial velocity, the angle of launch, and the time taken for the object to reach its highest point and return to the ground. Examples of projectile motion include the motion of a cannonball fired from a cannon or the motion of a basketball thrown into the air.

  1. Relative Velocity:

Relative velocity is a type of relative motion in which two or more objects are moving with respect to each other. This type of motion can be described by the velocity of each object and the direction of their motion relative to each other. Examples of relative velocity include the motion of two cars passing each other on a highway or the motion of two boats traveling in opposite directions on a river.

Understanding the different types of relative motion is essential in many areas of physics and engineering, including mechanics, aerodynamics, and robotics. By studying relative motion, we can better understand the behavior of objects in motion and develop more efficient and effective mechanical systems.

Define and classify Kinematic Pair

  1. Kinematic Pair:A kinematic pair is a joint or connection between two or more mechanical elements that allows them to move relative to each other. It is a fundamental element in the design of mechanical systems, as it enables motion transmission and allows the system to perform a specific task. Kinematic pairs are designed to allow one element to move with respect to another in a controlled manner, while maintaining the desired orientation and direction of motion.

Classification of Kinematic Pairs:

Kinematic pairs can be classified into various types based on their geometry and the type of relative motion they allow. Here are some of the most common types of kinematic pairs:

a. Sliding or Prismatic Pair: A sliding pair is a type of kinematic pair that allows linear motion between two elements. It is also known as a prismatic pair and is used in systems that require linear motion, such as in telescopic cylinders or piston and cylinder arrangements.

b. Revolute or Hinge Pair: A revolute pair is a type of kinematic pair that allows rotary motion between two elements. It is also known as a hinge pair and is commonly used in machines and robots that require rotary motion, such as in a door hinge or a robot arm.

c. Cylindrical Pair: A cylindrical pair is a type of kinematic pair that allows a combination of rotary and linear motion between two elements. It is commonly used in machines and robots that require combined linear and rotary motion, such as in a lathe machine or a robot wrist.

d. Spherical Pair: A spherical pair is a type of kinematic pair that allows rotational motion in any direction between two elements. It is commonly used in machines and robots that require a high degree of mobility and flexibility, such as in a ball joint or a robot hand.

e. Screw Pair: A screw pair is a type of kinematic pair that allows both rotary and linear motion between two elements. It is commonly used in systems that require high accuracy and precision, such as in a micrometre or a lead screw.

f. Cam Pair: A cam pair is a type of kinematic pair that allows motion between two elements that is defined by the shape of the cam. It is commonly used in machines and engines that require a specific motion profile, such as in a camshaft or a wiper blade mechanism.

These are just a few of the many types of kinematic pairs that can be found in mechanical systems. The classification of kinematic pairs is important for understanding how motion is transmitted in a mechanical system and for designing and analyzing mechanical systems.

Define the term Kinematic chain

A kinematic chain is a series of interconnected rigid bodies, which are linked together in such a way that they create a specific motion pattern when one or more of the bodies move. Each rigid body in the chain is referred to as a link or an element, and the connections between them are known as joints. The term “kinematic” refers to the study of motion without considering the forces or torques that cause it, which means that a kinematic chain is concerned solely with the motion of the rigid bodies and the relationship between them.

The kinematic chain can be found in many different mechanical systems, such as robots, machines, and vehicles, and is often used to analyze and design the motion of these systems. Kinematic chains can be either open or closed, depending on whether the chain is able to move freely in space or if it is constrained to a specific path. In an open kinematic chain, the end of the last link is not connected to anything and is free to move in space, while in a closed kinematic chain, the last link is connected to the first link to create a continuous loop.

There are different types of joints that can be used to connect the links in a kinematic chain, including revolute, prismatic, helical, and spherical joints. A revolute joint allows for rotational motion around an axis, while a prismatic joint allows for translational motion along an axis. A helical joint combines both rotational and translational motion along a helix, while a spherical joint allows for motion in any direction.

Overall, a kinematic chain is a fundamental concept in mechanical engineering and robotics that allows for the analysis and design of motion in complex systems. By understanding the relationship between the links and joints in a kinematic chain, engineers and designers can create more efficient and effective systems that are capable of performing a wide range of tasks.

Describe the relationship between Number of Links and Number of Pairs

In the field of kinematics, the relationship between the number of links and the number of pairs in a mechanism is an important concept to understand. A mechanism is a system of rigid bodies that are connected together by joints, and it can be used to transmit motion and force between different parts of a machine or device.

In a kinematic chain, each rigid body is referred to as a link, and the connections between the links are called joints. A joint is a type of constraint that limits the motion of a link in a specific way. The number of links and joints in a mechanism determines the degree of freedom, or the number of independent motions, that the mechanism can have.

The relationship between the number of links and pairs can be described using Grashof’s law, which states that for a four-bar linkage, the sum of the shortest and longest link lengths must be less than or equal to the sum of the remaining two link lengths in order for the mechanism to be able to rotate continuously. In general, the number of links and pairs in a mechanism can be related by the following equation:

n = 2p – 3

where n is the number of links and p is the number of pairs. This equation is known as the Grübler’s formula, and it applies to planar mechanisms, which are mechanisms that operate in a two-dimensional plane.

For example, a four-bar linkage, which consists of four links and four revolute joints, has p=2 because each joint connects two links, and therefore n=2p-3=5. In contrast, a six-bar linkage, which consists of six links and six revolute joints, has p=3 because each joint connects two links, and therefore n=2p-3=9.

In summary, the relationship between the number of links and pairs in a mechanism is important to consider when designing and analyzing complex mechanical systems. By understanding the relationship between these two variables, engineers and designers can create more efficient and effective mechanisms that are capable of transmitting motion and force between different parts of a machine or device.

Recall the types of joints used in a Chain

In kinematic chains, joints are used to connect the rigid bodies or links in such a way that they can move with respect to each other. There are several types of joints used in kinematic chains, each of which allows for a different type of motion. The most common types of joints used in kinematic chains are described below:

  1. Revolute Joint: A revolute joint allows for rotational motion around an axis. The axis of rotation can be fixed or movable and can be located either within or outside the joint. Revolute joints are often referred to as hinge joints, and they are commonly used in robotic manipulators and other machines that require precise control of rotational motion.
  2. Prismatic Joint: A prismatic joint allows for translational motion along an axis. The axis of translation is fixed and cannot rotate. Prismatic joints are often used in linear motion systems and in machines that require precise control of linear motion.
  3. Helical Joint: A helical joint allows for combined translational and rotational motion along a helix. Helical joints are similar to revolute joints, but they also allow for linear motion along the axis of rotation. They are often used in machines that require combined rotational and linear motion, such as lead screws and ball screws.
  4. Spherical Joint: A spherical joint allows for motion in any direction. The joint consists of a ball and socket, which allows for rotational motion around any axis that passes through the center of the ball. Spherical joints are often used in robotic manipulators and other machines that require a high degree of freedom of motion.
  5. Universal Joint: A universal joint, also known as a Cardan joint, is a type of coupling that allows for rotational motion between two shafts that are not aligned. The joint consists of two yokes that are connected by a cross-shaped intermediate member, which allows for rotation around two perpendicular axes.

Overall, the choice of joint type depends on the specific application and the type of motion required. The types of joints used in a kinematic chain determine the degree of freedom of motion and the level of control that can be exerted over the system. Understanding the different types of joints used in kinematic chains is essential for the design and analysis of mechanical systems.

Define the term Mechanism

A mechanism is a system of rigid bodies, also called links, that are connected together by joints in such a way that they can move relative to each other to perform a specific function. Mechanisms can be found in many different types of machines, devices, and structures, and are used to transmit motion and force from one part of the system to another.

In a mechanism, each link is considered to be a rigid body that can move relative to other links in the system, while the joints between the links are considered to be points or lines of contact that restrict the motion of the links in specific ways. The joints can be classified into different types, including revolver, prismatic, spherical, and universal joints, depending on the type of motion they allow.

The primary function of a mechanism is to transfer motion and force from a source, such as a motor or actuator, to a load, such as a tool or device. This is accomplished by controlling the motion and force of the links in the mechanism through the design and arrangement of the joints between them.

Mechanisms are used in a wide variety of applications, ranging from simple hand tools to complex machines and systems, such as automotive engines, robotics, and aircraft landing gear. The design and analysis of mechanisms is an important area of study in engineering, and involves understanding the relationships between the motion and force in the system, as well as the constraints imposed by the geometry and materials of the system.

Overall, the term mechanism refers to a system of links and joints that are used to transfer motion and force between different parts of a machine or device. The study of mechanisms is essential for the design and analysis of mechanical systems, and has applications in a wide range of industries and fields.

Recall Degree-of-Freedom or Mobility

Degree-of-freedom (DOF) or Mobility refers to the number of independent parameters or coordinates required to define the position and orientation of a rigid body or a mechanism in space. In other words, it is the number of ways in which a mechanism or a system of rigid bodies can move relative to a fixed frame or reference point.

The degree-of-freedom of a mechanism or a system of rigid bodies depends on the number of links and joints in the system, as well as the types of joints used. For example, a single rigid body in space has six degrees of freedom, which can be described by three translational coordinates and three rotational coordinates. A mechanism with n links and j joints will have a total of m = 3n – j degrees of freedom.

The degree-of-freedom of a mechanism is important in the design and analysis of mechanical systems, as it determines the range of motion and the level of control that can be exerted over the system. For example, a system with more degrees of freedom is more complex and can perform a wider range of motions, but it may also be more difficult to control. Conversely, a system with fewer degrees of freedom may be simpler and easier to control, but may be limited in its range of motion and functionality.

The degree-of-freedom is also used to classify the type of motion of a mechanism. For example, a mechanism with one degree-of-freedom can only perform one type of motion, such as a linear or rotational motion. A mechanism with two degrees-of-freedom can perform a combination of two types of motions, such as linear and rotational or two types of rotational motions. A mechanism with three or more degrees-of-freedom can perform more complex motions, such as moving in a plane or in three-dimensional space.

In summary, degree-of-freedom or mobility refers to the number of independent parameters required to describe the motion of a rigid body or a mechanism in space. It is an important parameter in the design and analysis of mechanical systems, and can be used to classify the type of motion and the level of control that can be exerted over the system.

Describe the Kutzbach criterion and its applications

The Kutzbach criterion is a method used to determine the degree-of-freedom or mobility of a mechanism or a system of rigid bodies. The criterion is named after Wilhelm Kutzbach, a German mathematician who first proposed the method in the 19th century.

The Kutzbach criterion states that in order for a mechanism to be statically determinate, the sum of the number of links and the number of degrees-of-freedom of the mechanism must be equal to twice the number of links minus three. Mathematically, the criterion can be expressed as:

f = 3n – 2j – m = 0

where f is the number of degrees-of-freedom, n is the number of links, j is the number of joints, and m is the number of constraints in the mechanism.

The Kutzbach criterion is used to determine whether a mechanism is over-constrained, under-constrained, or exactly constrained. An over-constrained mechanism has more constraints than necessary to maintain its desired motion, while an under-constrained mechanism has fewer constraints than necessary to maintain its desired motion. An exactly constrained mechanism has the right number of constraints to maintain its desired motion.

The Kutzbach criterion is also used to analyze the kinematic behavior of a mechanism and to optimize its design. By determining the degree-of-freedom or mobility of a mechanism, engineers can ensure that the mechanism has the desired range of motion and can be controlled effectively. The criterion can also be used to identify redundant constraints in a mechanism and to remove them in order to reduce its complexity and improve its performance.

Overall, the Kutzbach criterion is a useful tool for determining the degree-of-freedom or mobility of a mechanism or a system of rigid bodies, and for analyzing and optimising their design. The criterion provides a mathematical framework for understanding the kinematic behavior of mechanical systems and for ensuring that they can be controlled effectively.

Describe Grubler’s criterion for plane mechanism

Grubler’s criterion is a fundamental principle that helps to determine the degrees of freedom (DOF) of a planar mechanism. It is named after Franz Grubler, who was a Swiss mathematician and engineer.

In kinematics, a mechanism refers to a system of rigid bodies that are connected by joints, which allows relative motion between the bodies. A planar mechanism is a mechanism that operates in a plane, meaning that all its movements are restricted to two dimensions.

Grubler’s criterion provides a simple and effective way to determine the maximum number of independent motions that a planar mechanism can have. This is known as the mobility of the mechanism and is equivalent to the number of degrees of freedom.

Grubler’s criterion is based on the concept of constraints. A constraint is a restriction on the motion of a mechanism due to the nature of the joints connecting the bodies. The number of constraints on a planar mechanism is equal to the number of joints it has.

The criterion states that the maximum number of degrees of freedom of a planar mechanism is given by:

F = 3(N-1) – 2J

Where F is the maximum number of degrees of freedom, N is the number of links in the mechanism, and J is the number of joints.

The formula can be derived by considering that each link of the mechanism contributes two degrees of freedom (one for each end) and that the two links connected by a joint remove three degrees of freedom (two translations and one rotation).

Therefore, the formula takes into account the contribution of each link and joint to the overall mobility of the mechanism.

It is important to note that the formula gives the maximum number of degrees of freedom, which may not always be achievable due to geometric and other constraints on the mechanism. However, it provides a useful guideline for designing and analyzing planar mechanisms.

In summary, Grubler’s criterion is a powerful tool for determining the degrees of freedom of a planar mechanism. It takes into account the number of links and joints in the mechanism and provides a simple formula for calculating the maximum number of degrees of freedom.

Define the term Inversion of Mechanism

In mechanical engineering, an inversion of mechanism refers to a configuration change of a kinematic chain in which a joint or a link is fixed, and the relative motion between the remaining links and joints is analyzed. Essentially, an inversion is a rearrangement of the links and joints of a mechanism without changing the number of links or joints.

Mechanisms are systems of interconnected components that convert input motion and force into output motion and force. The motion and force transmission through a mechanism depend on the configuration and arrangement of its links and joints. By changing the configuration of a mechanism, its motion and force transmission characteristics can be altered.

For example, consider a four-bar linkage mechanism, which consists of four links connected by four joints. The four-bar linkage is commonly used in machines and devices for converting rotary motion into linear motion. By fixing one of the joints of the four-bar linkage, we can create different inversion configurations, such as the crank-rocker, double-rocker, and drag-link mechanisms. Each of these inversions has different motion and force transmission characteristics, and they can be used in different applications based on their unique properties.

Inversions of mechanisms are useful in mechanical design, as they allow engineers to analyze and optimize the performance of a mechanism. By analyzing different inversions, engineers can determine the best configuration for a particular application based on the required motion and force transmission characteristics. In addition, inversions can also provide insights into the limitations and challenges of a particular mechanism design.

In conclusion, the term inversion of mechanism refers to a configuration change of a kinematic chain in which a joint or link is fixed, and the relative motion between the remaining links and joints is analyzed. Inversions of mechanisms are useful in mechanical design, as they allow engineers to analyze and optimize the performance of a mechanism, and provide insights into the limitations and challenges of a particular mechanism design.

List and recall types of Kinematic chain

In mechanical engineering, a kinematic chain is a mechanism that is made up of a series of links connected by joints, which allows motion to be transmitted between them. Depending on the arrangement of links and joints, there are several different types of kinematic chains. Here are some of the most common types:

  1. Open Chain: An open chain is a type of kinematic chain in which the last link is not connected to any other link. This type of kinematic chain is commonly found in machines such as a sewing machine or an excavator.
  2. Closed Chain: A closed chain is a type of kinematic chain in which the last link is connected to the first link, forming a loop. This type of kinematic chain is commonly found in machines such as bicycles and chainsaws.
  3. Simple Chain: A simple chain is a type of kinematic chain in which each link is connected to no more than two other links. This type of kinematic chain is commonly found in machines such as a four-bar linkage or a slider-crank mechanism.
  4. Complex Chain: A complex chain is a type of kinematic chain in which each link is connected to more than two other links. This type of kinematic chain is commonly found in machines such as a planetary gear system or a robot arm.
  5. Planar Chain: A planar chain is a type of kinematic chain in which all links lie in the same plane. This type of kinematic chain is commonly found in machines such as a pantograph or a parallel linkage.
  6. Spherical Chain: A spherical chain is a type of kinematic chain in which the joints are spherical and the links can rotate freely. This type of kinematic chain is commonly found in machines such as a gimbal system or a universal joint.

In summary, the types of kinematic chains include open chains, closed chains, simple chains, complex chains, planar chains, and spherical chains. The selection of the type of kinematic chain depends on the specific requirements of the machine or device being designed.

State Grashof’s Law

In mechanical engineering, Grashof’s law, also known as the Grashof criterion, is a condition that must be satisfied by a four-bar linkage mechanism in order for it to have continuous motion. Grashof’s law applies to mechanisms in which all four links are rigid and the joints are revolving, meaning they rotate about a fixed axis.

Grashof’s law states that for a four-bar linkage mechanism to have continuous motion, the sum of the shortest and longest links must be less than or equal to the sum of the remaining two links. Mathematically, this can be expressed as:

s + l <= p + q

where s, l, p, and q are the lengths of the four links in the mechanism, and s is the length of the shortest link while l is the length of the longest link.

If the inequality above is satisfied, the mechanism is said to be a Grashof mechanism, and it will have a single degree of freedom, meaning that it can perform continuous motion. If the inequality is not satisfied, the mechanism is said to be a non-Grashof mechanism, and it will have either no degrees of freedom or more than one degree of freedom, meaning that it cannot perform continuous motion.

Grashof’s law is an important consideration in the design and analysis of four-bar linkage mechanisms. By determining whether a mechanism satisfies the Grashof criterion, engineers can predict whether the mechanism will be able to perform continuous motion and, if so, what its range of motion will be.

In summary, Grashof’s law is a condition that must be satisfied by a four-bar linkage mechanism in order for it to have continuous motion. The law states that the sum of the shortest and longest links in the mechanism must be less than or equal to the sum of the remaining two links. By satisfying this criterion, engineers can design mechanisms with predictable ranges of motion.

Describe the practical inversions of Four bar chain

In mechanical engineering, a four-bar chain is a mechanism made up of four links and four revolute joints that connect the links. Four-bar chains can be used to transmit motion and force in a variety of applications, from simple machines such as hand-cranked music boxes to more complex machinery such as engines and robots.

A practical inversion of a four-bar chain refers to a specific configuration of the four links and joints that allow the mechanism to perform a certain type of motion. There are four practical inversions of a four-bar chain, as follows:

  1. Crank-rocker: In this configuration, the input link (the crank) rotates about a fixed point, while the output link (the rocker) oscillates back and forth. This inversion is commonly used in devices such as windshield wipers and piston engines.
  2. Double crank: In this configuration, both the input and output links are cranks, and they rotate about fixed points. This inversion is commonly used in devices such as bicycles and hand-cranked generators.
  3. Rocker-crack: In this configuration, the input link (the rocker) oscillates back and forth, while the output link (the coupler) follows a complex path. This inversion is commonly used in devices such as pumps and conveyor belts.
  4. Double-rocker: In this configuration, both the input and output links are rockers, and they oscillate back and forth. This inversion is commonly used in devices such as steam engines and printing presses.

Each practical inversion of a four-bar chain has its own unique advantages and disadvantages, depending on the specific application. Engineers must carefully consider the range of motion, speed, and force requirements of the application when selecting the appropriate inversion. The practical inversions of a four-bar chain are important in the design and analysis of mechanisms, and they are used extensively in the field of mechanical engineering.

Recall the Inversions of Single slider crank chain in various cases such as cylinder is fixed, the crank is fixed, etc

In mechanical engineering, a single slider-crank chain is a mechanism made up of three links and four revolute joints, which is used to convert rotational motion into reciprocating motion or vice versa. The three links in this mechanism include the crank, connecting rod, and slider. Depending on the location of the fixed link, there are three different inversions of the single slider-crank chain mechanism, as follows:

  1. Crank and slotted lever mechanism (or inversion 1): In this inversion, the fixed link is the slotted lever or guide, and the crank rotates about a fixed point. The connecting rod is attached to the slider, which slides back and forth in the slot of the guide. This inversion is commonly used in devices such as steam engines and pumps.
  2. Double crank mechanism (or inversion 2): In this inversion, both the fixed links are cranks, and they rotate about fixed points. The connecting rod is attached to the slider, which moves back and forth between the two cranks. This inversion is commonly used in devices such as internal combustion engines.
  3. Crank and lever mechanism (or inversion 3): In this inversion, the fixed link is the crank, which rotates about a fixed point, and the connecting rod is attached to the lever, which pivots about a fixed point. The slider is attached to the end of the lever and moves back and forth in a straight line. This inversion is commonly used in devices such as reciprocating pumps and steam engines.

Each of these inversions can be further modified depending on the location of the cylinder. For example, if the cylinder is fixed, then the slider will move along a straight line. If the crank is fixed, then the slider will move along a circular path, and the connecting rod will act as the output link.

The inversions of the single slider-crank chain mechanism are important in the design and analysis of mechanisms, and they are used extensively in the field of mechanical engineering. By understanding the different inversions and their modifications, engineers can design mechanisms with specific ranges of motion and force requirements, to suit a wide range of applications.

Recall the Inversions of Single slider crank chain Pendulum pump and Gnome engine etc

In mechanical engineering, the single slider-crank chain mechanism has different inversions that are used in various applications. Two such inversions are the Pendulum Pump and the Gnome engine, which are explained below:

  1. Pendulum Pump: A Pendulum pump is a type of reciprocating pump that uses a single slider-crank chain mechanism, in which the fixed link is the cylinder or pump barrel. The crank is attached to a flywheel, which rotates about a fixed point. The connecting rod is attached to the piston or plunger of the pump, and the slider moves back and forth in the slot of the guide. As the flywheel rotates, the connecting rod moves the piston up and down in the pump barrel, creating a vacuum that draws water into the cylinder through an inlet valve. The piston then forces the water out through an outlet valve as it moves back up.
  2. Gnome engine: The Gnome engine is a type of internal combustion engine that uses a single slider-crank chain mechanism, in which the fixed link is the cylinder or engine block. The crank is attached to a propeller, which rotates about a fixed point. The connecting rod is attached to a piston that moves back and forth in the cylinder, and the slider is attached to the piston pin. As the piston moves up and down, it compresses a fuel-air mixture, which is ignited by a spark plug. The resulting explosion drives the piston down, which in turn rotates the crank and propeller.

Both the Pendulum Pump and the Gnome engine use the single slider-crank chain mechanism in different configurations to convert rotary motion into reciprocating motion or vice versa. By understanding the different inversions of the single slider-crank chain mechanism and their modifications, engineers can design various mechanisms with specific ranges of motion and force requirements that are suited to a wide range of applications.

Describe different Quick return motion mechanisms

In mechanical engineering, a quick return motion mechanism is a type of mechanism that produces non-uniform or non-constant motion in a machine. The main characteristic of a quick return motion mechanism is that the return stroke is faster than the forward stroke. This type of motion is useful in a wide range of applications, such as metal cutting, shaping, and stamping.

There are several different types of quick return motion mechanisms, including:

  1. Crank and slotted lever mechanism: In this mechanism, the crank is driven by a motor or other power source, and it is connected to a slotted lever by a connecting rod. The slotted lever is attached to a ram or tool, which moves back and forth in the slot of the lever. As the crank rotates, it causes the slotted lever to move up and down, which in turn moves the ram or tool back and forth. The return stroke of the ram is faster than the forward stroke, due to the shape of the slotted lever.
  2. Whitworth quick return mechanism: In this mechanism, the driving crank is connected to a slotted lever, which is attached to a link. The other end of the link is connected to a second slotted lever, which is connected to the ram or tool. As the driving crank rotates, it causes the first slotted lever to move up and down, which in turn moves the link and the second slotted lever. The shape of the second slotted lever produces a quick return motion of the ram or tool.
  3. Crank and double lever mechanism: In this mechanism, the driving crank is connected to two levers, which are attached to a third lever. The third lever is connected to the ram or tool. As the driving crank rotates, it causes the two levers to move up and down, which in turn moves the third lever and the ram or tool. The shape of the levers produces a quick return motion of the ram or tool.
  4. Scotch yoke mechanism: In this mechanism, the driving crank is connected to a sliding block or yoke, which moves back and forth in a straight line. The yoke is connected to the ram or tool, and as it moves back and forth, it produces a quick return motion of the ram or tool. The shape of the yoke produces a non-uniform motion, with the return stroke being faster than the forward stroke.

Overall, quick return motion mechanisms are essential in a wide range of applications, from metal cutting and shaping to stamping and forging. Understanding the different types of quick return motion mechanisms and their characteristics is critical to designing and implementing efficient and effective machines for various purposes.

Recall the Inversions of Double slider crank chain such as Elliptical trammel etc

The double slider crank chain is a type of mechanism consisting of two sliding blocks, connected by a crank and a coupler. It is often used in applications where a motion needs to be translated into a different type of motion, such as converting rotary motion into linear motion.

One practical inversion of the double slider crank chain is the elliptical trammel mechanism. In this mechanism, one of the sliders is connected to a fixed point, while the other slider is connected to a rotating arm. As the arm rotates, it causes the connected slider to move in an elliptical path, due to the constraints of the mechanism. The elliptical trammel mechanism is often used in mechanical drawing and drafting applications, to create an ellipse or oval shape.

Another inversion of the double slider crank chain is the Scotch yoke mechanism. In this mechanism, the sliding blocks are replaced with a yoke or slider that moves back and forth in a straight line. The yoke is connected to the crank and coupler, and as the crank rotates, it causes the yoke to move back and forth. The shape of the coupler and the yoke produce a non-uniform motion, with the return stroke being faster than the forward stroke.

Other practical inversions of the double slider crank chain include the Oldham coupling mechanism and the Peaucellier-Lipkin linkage. The Oldham coupling mechanism is used to transmit torque between two parallel shafts that are slightly misaligned. It consists of two sliding blocks with perpendicular slots, connected by a cross-shaped coupler that maintains constant contact between the blocks. The Peaucellier-Lipkin linkage is a complex mechanism that converts rotary motion into linear motion, and vice versa. It is often used in applications where precise motion control is required, such as in robotics and automation.

Overall, the double slider crank chain is a versatile and widely used mechanism in mechanical engineering, with many practical inversions that can be used in a wide range of applications. Understanding the different types of inversions and their characteristics is critical to designing and implementing efficient and effective machines for various purposes.