6. Technical understanding (6.2 How do mechanisms provide functionality to products and systems?)

Question 1

Rotary

Answer 1

Refers to a type of motion in which an object rotates or spins around an axis or center point. Think of a wheel turning on its axle, or a record player spinning a vinyl record.

Question 2

Linear

Answer 2

Refers to a type of motion that occurs in a straight line. For example, a train moving along a track, or a piston moving back and forth inside an engine cylinder.

Question 3

Reciprocating

Answer 3

Refers to a type of motion in which an object moves back and forth in a straight line. A common example of this is a saw blade moving up and down to cut through wood.

Question 4

Oscillating

Answer 4

Refers to a type of motion in which an object moves back and forth around a central point. Think of a pendulum swinging back and forth, or a fan that rotates back and forth to distribute air.

Question 5

Gears, cams, pulleys and belts, levers, linkages, screw threads, worm drives, sprockets, chain drives and belt drives. Are all examples of what

Answer 5

These are all examples of mechanical devices that can change the direction and magnitude of forces and torques. Gears, pulleys, and sprockets are used to transmit power and change the speed and direction of rotation, while levers and linkages can amplify force or change its direction.

Question 6

Epicyclic gear systems

Answer 6

Also known as planetary gear systems, these are a type of gear system that consists of one or more outer gears (called planet gears) that rotate around a central gear (called the sun gear). Epicyclic gear systems are used in many applications where high gear ratios and compact size are required, such as in automatic transmissions.

Question 7

Bearings and lubrication

Answer 7

Bearings are used to support rotating shafts and reduce friction between moving parts. Lubrication is used to reduce friction and wear between moving parts, and can be achieved through the use of oils, greases, or other lubricants.