MECH5. ANISMS

In this unit you will learn to:

• Know the basic mechanisms of transmission and transformation of movement.

• Identify simple mechanisms in complex machines.

• Calculate the transmission ratio different mechanisms such as levers, pulleys, gears, etc.

• Operate a mechanism simulator to reproduce real machines using standard symbology.

• Analyse the mechanisms that configure a machine or system, as well as its operation.

• A Design and build machines to perform a given task.

1.   Introduction

Did you know that the wheel appeared in Mesopotamia more than 5,000 years ago? Despite this, there are still tribes, such as the Toulambis, in Papua New Guinea, who do not know it. The Toulambis live in the jungle surrounded by dense forests where there is little room to roll the logs on the ground. Hence they have not discovered such a primary mechanism nor have they developed this technology.

 Did you know that the bicycle is the most effective means, ahead of cars, trains or planes? This means that, for the same displacement, we use with it five times less energy than walking. The relationship is even greater with respect to other means of transport; for example, with the energy that an average consumer car uses to travel 100 m, the bicycle can advance 5 km.

In addition, we can say that this means of transport is also the fastest in urban travel if we compute the time spent traveling the distance, which separates our house from the point we want to reach (including bus waiting and parking in the case of private vehicle)

Analysis of the mechanisms of a bicycle

The mechanisms are everywhere; in this unit we will check how an everyday object, like our bicycle, contains most of the known simple mechanisms. At the end of the unit you will have learned a lot about your own bike and about mechanisms, so you will be able to build some simple ones and check their operation.

 What should you do?

1. Identify on your bike the different mechanisms that make up each of its parts.

2. Classify the different types, their mode of operation and their practical application.

3. Prepare a slideshow where you explain the functioning of these elements through photographs and diagrams.

4. Add to your presentation a section that includes the basic tasks of maintenance and adjustment of the bike.