Shop Practice 3

OBJECTIVES:

1) To be able to hand-manufacture a link using supplied tools and materials

2) To be able to understand the concepts of improvisation in making perfectly conical core

3) To easily make a methodological diagram and be able to analyze the diagram properly by
power of observation and stock knowledge

4) To enhance the skill of the student in using woodworking tools as their secondary appendage

1) What is a Linkage? Describe completely.

2) What is the first mechanism of a link? Describe and explain.

3) What is Screw Theory? Who discovered this? When was it discovered and what applications
were used for this?

4) Who was James Watt and what linkage specialty did he discover? What were the applications
for his discovery? Provide explanations and examples. Put drawings or photos.

5) What forms of contribution to the link and linkage did Leonard Euler provide to modern
society? What were the applications of these? Explain and provide diagrams.

6) What are the types of Linkages? Explain and provide photos.

7) Discuss the types of links and their uses to the mechanical industry.

8) What are Joints? Differentiate the different types using discussion and
diagrams/drawings/photos

9) What is a 3 Bar Linkage? Where is it used? Why?

10) Differentiate a 4 bar Linkage to a 5-bar linkage. Explain how each one works and why and
where are they used for.
Description References

What is a Linkage? Describe completely.

A linkage refers to a system of interconnected components or elements designed to transmit

Linkages are intricately designed systems within mechanical systems to achieve specific
functions such as transforming motion, amplifying force, providing controlled movement, or
enabling complex actions. They are found in various machinery, vehicles, robotics, and
manufacturing equipment. Linkages are crucial in mechanical engineering, influencing the
functionality and performance of various systems through controlled motion, force
transmission, or energy transfer. Their study and design are integral to the overall mechanical
system.

References:
Info: https://www.firgelliauto.com/en-ph/blogs/news/basics-of-linkages-fundamentals-of-
linkages
What is the first mechanism of a link? Describe and explain.

Four-bar linkages are rigid bars or elements that form a structure, consisting of four links: one
for input, one for output, two connecting links, and joints. These links form a closed loop with
four joints, and their geometry can vary, affecting the resulting motion. The study of the four-
bar linkage involves analyzing its kinematics, considering how angles and lengths of the links
influence the motion. The input link's motion causes the other links to move, resulting in a
specific output motion. Four-bar linkages are versatile and found in various mechanical systems,
such as engines, robotics, and machinery, to convert rotary motion to linear motion, amplify or
reduce motion, and control the path of motion. Grashof's Criterion is a critical concept in four-
bar linkage analysis, determining whether the linkage can achieve continuous rotation or if it
has a dead point. Understanding the geometry and kinematics of a four-bar linkage is
foundational for mechanical engineers, providing insights into designing different linkages for
specific motions and functionalities.

References:
Info: https://www.cs.cmu.edu/~rapidproto/mechanisms/examples.html
What is Screw Theory? Who discovered this? When was it discovered and what applications were
used for this?

Screw theory is a mathematical framework and branch of mechanics that deals with the
algebraic and geometric representation of rigid body motion. It provides a systematic way to
represent and analyze the motion of objects in three-dimensional space, particularly the motion
of rigid bodies undergoing translational and rotational motion simultaneously. Screw theory is
widely used in robotics, mechanical engineering, and computer graphics for modeling and
controlling the motion of robotic systems and mechanical structures.

Developed by Sir Robert Stawell Ball in the late 19th century, it was expanded upon by Sir Robert
Alexander Hamilton and Élie Cartan in the early 20th century. Applications include robotics for
the analysis and control of robotic manipulators, mechanical engineering for the design and
analysis of complex systems, computer graphics for animation and simulation of rigid body
motion, and kinematics and dynamics for the study of kinematics and dynamics of mechanical
systems.

References:
Info: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/279377447_Basics_of_Screw_Theory
Who was James Watt and what linkage specialty did he discover? What were the applications for
his discovery?

James Watt, a Scottish inventor, mechanical engineer, and chemist, was renowned for his
significant contributions to the development of the steam engine. His improvements
significantly impacted the Industrial Revolution, enhancing the efficiency and practicality of
steam power. One of his notable inventions was the Watt linkage, a parallel motion linkage
designed to smoothen and optimize the conversion of the piston's reciprocating motion into
rotary motion.

The Watt linkage was a crucial component in the development of steam engines, aimed at
controlling the piston rod's motion in a straight line. It consisted of a system of levers and rods,
including a parallel motion system, a connecting rod, and a crank. The Watt linkage reduced
side forces on the piston, facilitated more efficient power transfer, and reduced wear and tear
on engine components. Its application in steam engines improved power transmission efficiency
and reliability, reducing vibration and wear on engine components. The Watt steam engine
played a significant role in the Industrial Revolution, powering machinery in factories, mills, and
mines, revolutionizing manufacturing processes and contributing to the growth of industry in
the 18th and 19th centuries. James Watt's innovations, including the Watt linkage, significantly
impacted the development of steam power and its applications, making it a key technology
driving industrialization during a critical period in history.

References:
Picture: https://m.roadkillcustoms.com/watts-link-geometry/
Info: https://www.britannica.com/biography/James-Watt
What forms of contribution to the link and linkage did Leonard Euler provide to modern society?
What were the applications of these?

Leonhard Euler, a Swiss mathematician, physicist, and engineer, made significant contributions
to mechanics and mathematics. He developed the concept of "Eulerian circuits" in graphs, which
are paths that traverse each edge of a graph exactly once. This concept has applications in the
analysis of mechanical linkages. Euler's work, published in 1736, laid the foundation for the
study of graphs and networks. Eulerian circuits are used to study the connectivity and motion of
mechanisms, making them a valuable tool in the field of linkages.

Euler's graph theory provides a mathematical framework for understanding the connectivity of
linkages, which can be represented as graphs. Eulerian circuits analyze linkage motion to
determine motions without interference or deadlock. Euler's work is applied in mechanisms,
robotics, and machinery and mechanical systems, helping engineers design and control efficient
and controlled movements, optimize robotic arms, and ensure smooth motion in various
applications.

References:
Info: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Leonhard-Euler
What are the types of Linkages? Explain and provide photos.

Four-Bar Linkage:
Consists of four interconnected links (bars) and four joints.
Forms a closed loop, and the movement of one link affects the others.
Used in machinery, engines, and mechanisms where controlled motion is required.

References:
Photo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=tzM00VM3cwU
Info: https://dynref.engr.illinois.edu/aml.html

Slider-Crank Mechanism:
A specific type of four-bar linkage with one of the joints configured as a sliding or linear joint.
Commonly used in internal combustion engines, such as in the pistons of a car engine.
References:
Photo: https://grabcad.com/library/slider-crank-mechanism-71
Info: https://www.britannica.com/technology/slider-crank-mechanism

Six-Bar Linkage:
Similar to the four-bar linkage but with two additional links, making it more complex.
Offers increased flexibility in motion and path generation.
Used in various applications, including robotics and machinery.
References:
Info and Picture: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Six-bar_linkage

Pantograph Linkage:
Consists of parallel linkage chains connected by joints.
Maintains a geometrically similar configuration as it moves, often used for scaling or copying
motions.
References:
Picture: https://collection.sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk/objects/co60166/pantograph-
peaucellier-linkage-by-d-drysdale-pantograph
Info: https://www.robotpark.com/academy/mechanisms-linkages-pantograph-mechanism/

Discuss the types of links and their uses to the mechanical industry.

In the mechanical industry, various types of links are employed to create complex mechanisms
and systems that perform specific functions. These links serve as fundamental building blocks in
the design of machinery, engines, vehicles, and other mechanical systems. Here are some
common types of links and their uses in the mechanical industry:

Rigid Links:
Description: Straight, inflexible bars or rods.
Uses: Provide structural support and maintain the relative positions of components in a
mechanism. Essential for the stability and integrity of the overall system.

Connecting Rods:
Description: Rods that connect a rotating crank to a reciprocating piston or another moving
part.
Uses: Found in internal combustion engines, compressors, and reciprocating pumps. Convert
rotary motion into reciprocating motion.

Pins and Joints:

Cams:
Description: Non-circular rotating disks or profiles.
Uses: Convert rotary motion into linear or oscillatory motion. Used in engines, machinery, and
automation systems to control the motion of followers.
Gears:
Description: Toothed wheels that transmit motion and power.
Uses: Provide speed reduction, speed increase, or torque multiplication in mechanical systems.
Found in gear trains, transmissions, and various power transmission systems.
References:
Info: https://dizz.com/kinematic-link/
What are Joints? Differentiate the different types using discussion and
diagrams/drawings/photos

Hinge Joint
Description: Allows rotation around a single axis.
Application: Used in doors, gates, and machinery where only rotational motion is required.
References: https://aaltomies.wordpress.com/2016/03/26/mecha-design-basic-hinge-joints/

Revolute Joint:
Description: Allows rotation around a fixed point in three-dimensional space.
Application: Found in linkages, robotic arms, and other systems requiring rotational freedom.
References: https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Revolute-1-DOF-Joint_fig1_312023774
Prismatic Joint:
Description: Allows linear motion along a single axis.
Application: Used in sliding doors, drawer slides, and mechanisms where linear translation is
necessary.
References: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/engineering/prismatic-joint
What is a 3 Bar Linkage? Where is it used? Why?

A 3-bar linkage is a mechanical system consisting of three interconnected rigid bars or links,
often joined by revolute joints. It is commonly used in various mechanical systems and
machinery, such as engines, robot arms, and converters and mechanisms. The main components
of a 3-bar linkage are the input link (Link 1), the output link (Link 2), and the connecting link
(Link 3). Revolute joints allow rotational motion at the connection points between the links.

The 3-bar linkage can produce straight-line motion of the output link, making it useful in
applications requiring linear motion. It is also used in mechanical systems, such as engines and
robot arms, and in converters and mechanisms for converting rotary motion into different forms
of motion.

Advantages of a 3-bar linkage include its simplicity, versatility, and ability to convert rotary
motion into linear or oscillatory motion.

References:
https://mathcurve.com/courbes2d.gb/troisbarres/troisbarre.shtml#
Differentiate a 4 bar Linkage to a 5-bar linkage. Explain how each one works and why and where
are they used for.

The 4-bar linkage is a simple system consisting of four rigid bars or links and four joints,
typically revolute joints. It forms a closed loop, determining its motion by the angular
displacement of one link. The input motion, often applied to one link, is transferred to the other
links through the joints, resulting in controlled motion. This system is used in machinery, such as
automotive suspensions and folding chairs, for controlled motion requirements. Its advantages
include simplicity and controlled motion.

The 5-bar linkage is a more complex system, consisting of five interconnected rigid bars or links
and five joints, including revolute and prismatic joints. It offers additional degrees of freedom,
allowing for specific and intricate movements. It is used in robotics, biomechanics, and
manufacturing for precise and complex movements. Its advantages include increased flexibility
and versatility, making it suitable for various types of motion and positioning.

In conclusion, the 4-bar linkage is simple and commonly used for controlled motion in
machinery, offering straightforward design and predictable movement. The 5-bar linkage offers
versatility for applications requiring intricate and varied movements, particularly in robotics and
biomechanics.

References:
https://pergatory.mit.edu/resources/FUNdaMENTALs%20Book%20pdf/FUNdaMENTALs
%20Topic%204.PDF