MINI LESSON 1 - MECHANISMS

MECHANISMS

A mechanism is a device that transforms an inputted force and motion into a different force and motion.

In robotics, the forces that we can use usually start with motors. This initial force is a rotational force. As designers, we often have to create mechanisms that will alter that rotational force so that it can be applied at a different location, or in a different direction or even as a linear force.

Mechanisms are all around us.

Your bike peddles, gears and wheels convert your feet’s circular force into linear motion.

A stapler is a mechanism that takes a force in the form of a downward push and converts that into the force required to push down a single staple through a page and bend it.

A scissor lift machine is a mechanism that converts a rotational force from a motor into a vertical linear force.

When we look at mechanisms, we will focus strictly on the parts of the device that achieve the force change.