A resource book which looks at the design of mechanisms, for example gears and linkages, through the eyes of a mathematician. There are a wide variety of examples including car steering, anglepoise lamps, bicycles, cine cameras, folding push chairs and the design of robots. Readers are encouraged to make models throughout and to look for further examples in everyday life. Suitable for GCSE, A level, and mathematics/technology/engineering courses in Further Education.

 

This book has been graded for interest at 11-14 years.

There are 216 pages in this book. This book was published 1991 by Cambridge University Press .

This book has the following chapters: 1. Around we go! -Transmitting rotary motion using belts, pulleys, sprockets and chains; 2. Gnashing teeth! -An analysis of gear trains; 3. Tipping, tilting and turning -The variable-based triangle; 4. Swings, lifts and balances -Applications of the parallelogram linkage; 5. From rocking horses to steam engines -Applications of the isosceles trapezium linkage; 6. Why is a cyclist like a pedal bin? -Applications and analysis of the general 4-bar linkage; 7. Hoist away! -Winding mechanisms; 8. Rolling along -Rollers and wheels; 9. Forward twist! -Combining rotary and linear motion; 10. A bumpy ride! -Cams and ratchets; 11. Win some, lose some! -Levers and hydraulic rams; 12. Mechanical manipulators -An analysis of robot designs; Solutions to exercises