ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to introduce the kinematics of mechanisms, i.e. the motion of devices that convert one type of motion into another without the application of force. Kinematics is concerned with motion, without reference to forces, and mechanisms may be defined as those devices that transform some applied motion into some other desired motion. A rigid body forming part of a mechanism will always be fixed in length, no matter what type of motion occurs. The velocities and accelerations of links in mechanisms can be analysed mathematically as well as being determined graphically. Describe what the study of ‘kinetics’ involves and explain what is meant by ‘a mechanism’, give two practical examples of the use of mechanisms. A rigid body forming part of a mechanism will always be fixed in length, no matter what type of motion occurs.
