What are mechanisms in VEX?

In VEX, mechanisms are systems which has a purpose. Most mechanisms involve moving parts using motors or pneumatics. The mechanisms introduced on the sites are mechanisms which will be applicable in any VEX game from any years. This means that there are many more mechanisms that could be more useful than the ones introduced, but it is up to you to design them. Building mechanisms is not done with just the structural parts but they have to be tested, programmed, and tuned for the best performance.

How can I build better mechanisms?

In any mechanism, the best way to improve it is by adding structural integrity. When a mechanism is unstable or loose, then the motor power will be weak and the mechanism might not function. Most people might blame this on motors being too weak. But before you add another motor, it is crucial that you look through your mechanism to see if there are any problems with it or if it is structurally stable or not. For the best structural integrity, a triangle is the best shape. This is actually proven by mathematics.

Read more about it here.