Notes in Mechatronics and Making

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Published	10/15/2024	The main components of a mechatronic system include {{c1::sensors}}, {{c2::actuators}}, and {{c3::control systems}}.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Sensors}} provide essential information about a system and its environment, allowing the system to perform tasks and adapt to changes.
Published	10/15/2024	The {{c1::accuracy}} of a sensor refers to how close the measured value is to the actual value, while {{c2::repeatability}} refers to how consistently…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Position sensors}} measure the coordinates of an object, while {{c2::tachometers}} measure rotational speed and {{c3::accelerometers}} measure a…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Mechanical advantage}} is the ratio of the load or weight \( W \) to the effort \( F \) exerted by an operator or mechanism: \( MA = \frac{W}{F}…
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::lever}} is a simple machine consisting of a rigid beam that rotates about a fixed point called the {{c2::fulcrum}}.
Published	10/15/2024	In a {{c1::Class 1 lever}}, the fulcrum is located between the effort and the load, as seen in tools like crowbars and seesaws.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Prismatic joints}} allow only sliding movement between two objects, whereas {{c2::revolute joints}} permit rotation around a fixed axis.
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::universal joint}} connects two shafts whose axes are inclined to each other and allows transmission of rotary motion.
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::winch}} converts rotary motion into linear motion, usually with some mechanical advantage, and is considered a Class 1 lever.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Tension}} in a cord or rope refers to the force that pulls on the object to which the cord is attached, directed along the cord.
Published	10/15/2024	In a pulley system, mechanical advantage is gained by increasing the number of {{c1::cables}} supporting the load.
Published	10/15/2024	The {{c2::velocities}} of two pulleys connected by a belt are inversely proportional to their {{c1::radii}}, meaning a larger pulley will rotate slowe…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Capstan friction}} occurs when a rope is wound around a cylinder, with the tension differing on either side due to frictional forces.
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::planar linkage}} is a mechanism composed of several links connected in the same plane, such as a four-bar linkage.
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::crank-rocker mechanism}} is a four-bar linkage where one link rotates continuously, and the opposite link oscillates.
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::straight-line generator}} is a linkage designed to produce linear motion from rotary or oscillatory input, often used in machine tools.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Winches}} and {{c2::capstans}} convert rotary motion into linear motion using mechanical advantage, and are considered Class 1 levers.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Specialized linkages}} are designed to perform specific tasks like converting continuous rotation into oscillation or reciprocating motion.
Published	10/15/2024	The {{c1::Scott Russell straight-line generator}} uses hinged links to confine a point to a straight line, with applications in machine tools.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Watt's straight-line generator}} was used in early steam-powered machines to produce linear motion for beam pumps.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Motion transmission mechanisms}} transfer motion from actuators to tools and can also adjust torque and speed.
Published	10/15/2024	Common types of motion transmission include {{c1::rotary-to-rotary}}, {{c2::rotary-to-translational}}, and {{c3::cyclic motion}} mechanisms.
Published	10/15/2024	The efficiency of a motion transmission mechanism is the ratio of {{c1::output power}} to {{c2::input power}}.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Gears}} and {{c2::gear trains}} are used to transmit motion, change speed or torque, and convert rotational to linear motion.
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::spur gear}} has straight teeth that project radially and are used for moderate-speed applications where the axes of rotation are parallel.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Helical gears}} have angled teeth, which engage gradually for smoother and quieter operation, making them suitable for high-speed applications.
Published	10/15/2024	In a {{c1::planetary gear system}}, planet gears rotate around a central sun gear and are supported by a ring gear, providing compact form factors and…
Published	10/15/2024	The {{c1::harmonic drive}} is a high-ratio motion transmission mechanism that uses wave-like deformation of one component to transfer motion.
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::rack-and-pinion mechanism}} converts rotational motion into linear motion, using a rotating gear and a linear gear (the rack).
Published	10/15/2024	The main characteristics of transmission systems include {{c1::gear ratio}}, {{c2::efficiency}}, {{c3::backlash}}, and {{c4::stiffness}}.
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::DC motor}} converts electrical energy into mechanical energy, typically producing rotary motion.
Published	10/15/2024	The {{c1::torque-speed curve}} of a DC motor shows the relationship between the motor's torque and speed, with higher torque corresponding to lower sp…
Published	10/15/2024	The force produced by a DC motor can be calculated using the formula {{c1::\( F = iL\Phi \),}} where \( i \) is the current, \( L \) is the condu…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Brushless DC motors (BLDC)}} use an electronic control system instead of mechanical brushes, leading to higher efficiency and longer lifespan.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Servomotors}} allow precise control of position, velocity, and acceleration and are often used in robotics.
Published	10/15/2024	In a DC motor, the {{c1::commutator}} reverses the current in the rotor to maintain continuous rotation, but it can lead to power losses and wear.
Published	10/15/2024	The efficiency of a motor is the ratio of {{c1::mechanical power output}} to {{c2::electrical power input}}, with losses attributed to factors like re…
Published	10/15/2024	In a {{c1::brushless DC motor}}, the commutation is handled electronically, improving efficiency and eliminating problems like sparking and wear.
Published	10/15/2024	The {{c1::armature}} in a DC motor is the rotating component that generates {{c2::torque}} through {{c3::interaction with the magnetic field}} created…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Transient response}} of a DC motor describes how quickly the motor reaches its steady-state speed when a voltage is applied, and it can be affec…
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::slider-crank mechanism}} converts rotary motion into linear motion and is commonly used in engines and pumps.
Published	10/15/2024	The {{c1::position of the slider}} in a slider-crank mechanism can be expressed as \( x = r \cos(\theta) + \sqrt{l^2 - r^2 \sin^2(\theta)} \), where \…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Industrial robots}} are classified based on their control systems, arm geometry, and end effectors, with applications in electronics, automotive…
Published	10/15/2024	The term {{c1::degrees of freedom (DOF)}} refers to the number of axes a robot can move, indicating its flexibility and range of motion.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Surgical robots}}, like the Da Vinci system, are used to perform minimally invasive surgeries with high precision and reduced recovery time.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Mobile robots}} can be land-based, aerial (drones), or underwater vehicles, with applications in surveillance, transportation, and disaster resp…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Exoskeletons}} are wearable robotic devices designed to assist or enhance human muscle functions, with applications in industry, military, and h…
Published	10/15/2024	The {{c1::Cartesian robot}} has three linear axes, often used for tasks requiring precise movement along orthogonal axes, such as pick-and-place opera…
Published	10/15/2024	A {{c1::gripper}} is a common robotic end effector used for grasping and manipulating objects in industrial applications.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Pneumatic actuators}} use compressed air to generate motion, offering fast response times but typically lower precision than hydraulic or electr…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Hydraulic actuators}} are capable of generating large forces, making them suitable for heavy-duty applications, but they require regular mainten…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Pascal's principle}} states that pressure applied to an enclosed fluid is transmitted undiminished to every part of the fluid and the walls of t…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Electric actuators}} provide precise control over motion and force, with fewer maintenance requirements compared to hydraulic systems.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Soft robotics}} uses {{c2::flexible materials}} and {{c3::pneumatic actuation}} to create robots capable of safe interaction with humans and obj…
Published	10/15/2024	In a {{c1::hydraulic actuator}}, the use of incompressible fluid allows for smooth and controlled movement with high force output.
Published	10/15/2024	Pneumatic systems often use {{c2::air compressors}} and {{c1::solenoid valves}} to control the direction and flow of air, enabling precise movement in…
Published	10/15/2024	In robotics, {{c1::fluidic logic circuits}} can be used to control pneumatic actuators without the need for electronic components.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Hydraulic actuators}} are widely used in heavy machinery, offering the ability to lift and move large loads with great precision.
Published	10/15/2024	In DC motor selection, the motor's {{c1::torque-speed characteristics}} must match the requirements of the application to ensure efficient operation.
Published	10/15/2024	The motor's {{c1::nominal speed}} and {{c2::torque}} should be chosen based on the application's required range of motion and forces.
Published	10/15/2024	The {{c1::trapezoidal speed trajectory}} is often used in motor applications to balance speed and acceleration while minimizing power consumption.
Published	10/15/2024	To avoid motor overheating, it's important to calculate the {{c1::RMS current}} and ensure it doesn't exceed the motor's rated current.
Published	10/15/2024	DC motors must be checked for {{c1::overheating}} by analyzing the {{c2::thermal load}} and ensuring that the motor's operating conditions stay within…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Kondratiev waves}} suggest that technologies go through cycles where they exhaust their potential, slowing down until new technologies emerge.
Published	10/15/2024	In Industry 4.0, the concept of {{c1::servitisation}} refers to combining products with services, where customers buy the service that the product pro…
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Information and Communication Technology (ICT)}} encompasses data processing and the transmission of information over wired or wireless networks…
Published	10/15/2024	The term {{c1::Internet of Things (IoT)}} refers to fitting everyday objects with internet connectivity, allowing for remote monitoring and control.
Published	10/15/2024	In Industry 4.0, {{c1::smart factories}} use intelligent machines and systems to produce mass-customized products with greater flexibility.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Digital twins}} are virtual models of physical systems used to simulate, monitor, and optimize production processes in real-time.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Additive manufacturing}}, or 3D printing, allows for the creation of complex, customized objects by adding material layer by layer.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::3D printing}}, also known as {{c2::additive manufacturing}}, builds objects layer by layer from digital models.
Published	10/15/2024	In {{c1::subtractive manufacturing}}, material is removed from a larger block to create the final product. Examples include drilling and cutting.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Laser cutting}} is a subtractive manufacturing process that uses a focused laser beam to cut or engrave materials with high precision.
Published	10/15/2024	In {{c1::fused deposition modeling (FDM)}}, plastic filament is heated and extruded layer by layer to build a 3D object.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Stereolithography (SLA)}} uses a UV laser to cure resin layer by layer, producing highly detailed 3D printed parts.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Selective Laser Sintering (SLS)}} involves using a laser to sinter powdered material, such as plastic or metal, into a solid 3D structure.
Published	10/15/2024	The resolution of a 3D printer is determined by the {{c1::layer height}}, with smaller layers producing higher resolution but slower prints.
Published	10/15/2024	In 3D printing, {{c1::infill}} refers to the internal structure of a printed object, which can vary in density depending on strength requirements.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Supports}} are temporary structures printed along with a 3D object to support overhangs, which are later removed after printing.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Exoskeletons}} are wearable devices designed to restore lost functions, increase muscle strength, or assist in carrying external loads.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Rigid exoskeletons}} use hard materials like metal to support and augment the wearer’s movements, typically for industrial or military use.
Published	10/15/2024	{{c1::Pneumatic actuators}} and {{c2::electric motors}} are commonly used in exoskeletons to provide powered assistance to human movement.
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