ABSTRACT
Machine: A machine, according to Reuleaux, is a combination of resistant bodies (rigid, elastic, or fluid) so arranged that by their means the mechanical forces in nature can be compelled to produce some effect or work accompanied by certain determinate motions. Figure 1.1 shows a cross section of a single-cylinder engine (or compressor). For an engine, a mixture of air and vapor of flammable fluid enters the cylinder, is ignited, pushes the piston, and the connecting rod, which in turn causes the crank to rotate. Thus, the engine transmits the gas force to be a torque on the crank. Also, it converts the reciprocating motion of the piston to a rotary motion for the crank. The function of the compressor is opposite to the engine.
