Mechanical product functions

This topic focuses on the mechanical functions of products and how these are handled in a design process. The topic is divided into modules:

• Concepts and Terminology (C&T)
  • C&T related to design
  • C&T related to mechanics
  • C&T related to mechanical functions
• Technological Foundations 1: Mechanics and Statics
  • Newton's laws of motion
  • Analysis of forces and moments
  • Basic use of equilibrium equations
  • Free-body diagrams
  • Basic statics
  • Fundamentals of strength of materials
• Technological Foundations 2: Friction
  • Surfaces
  • Forces influencing friction
  • Coulomb's law of friction
  • Rolling and sliding friction
  • Adhesive friction
  • Abrasive friction
• Technological Foundations: Introduction to Mechanisms
  • Statics vs. dynamics
  • Kinematics vs. kinetics
  • Description of mechanisms
  • Different types of mechanisms in products
• Mechanical Components 1: Fasteners
  • Bolts and screw connections
  • Riveted connections
  • Compliant mechanisms and clips
• Mechanical Components 2: Bearings and Guides
  • Rotational bearings
  • Linear bearings
  • Actuators
• Mechanical Components 3: Springs
  • Hooke's law
  • Different types of springs
  • Compound systems
  • Applications of springs in products
• Technical Systems 1: Transmissions
  • Gear ratios
  • Gears and gear wheels
  • Belt drives
  • Chain drives
• Technical Functions 2: Simple Mechanisms
  • Oscillating mechanisms
  • Step mechanisms
  • Converting linear motion to rotation
  • Converting rotation to linear motion
  • Reciprocating mechanisms
  • Technical Functions 3 Higher-order mechanisms
  • Kinematic analysis of 4-bar mechanisms
  • Grashof’s criterion
• Mechanisms in Products
  • Analysis and implementation
  • Examples
  • Testing and evaluation
  • Form and function

Students must develop an understanding of concepts and terminology related to mechanical systems. The students must have an understanding of the technological principles that apply when a mechanical function is to be designed into a product. An understanding of how forces and moments act in products and mechanisms. The students must gain an understanding that materials in themselves are a limitation and an opportunity when designing mechanical systems. The students must understand the effect and use of various mechanical components and how such components can be used in a design process. The students must be able to choose different solutions and components with the intention of being able to design mechanisms of different types. The students must be able to carry out simple analyzes of mechanisms and movements. This subject should provide a basic understanding and knowledge of the integration of mechanical functions during a design process

Lectures are primarily conducted in the laboratory or in adjacent areas. All lectured material is available as short video clips that students can review as needed. The course is relatively lab-intensive.

The course is divided into modules, with each module including the following components:

• Lectures and Video Lectures: Short sessions, maximum of 30 minutes.
• Exercises and/or Lab Exercises: At least one mandatory exercise or lab exercise per module.
• Student-Active Learning: Supported by student assistants or peer evaluation systems.
• Practical Problem-Solving Focus: Learning is always connected to practical problem-solving, so there is minimal delay between learning and engaging in exercises and/or lab activities.
• Group Exercises and Lab Activities: Exercises and lab activities are conducted in groups.
• Guidance and Solutions: Exercises and lab tasks are meant to be guided throughout, with solution suggestions made available once the submission deadline expires.
• Mandatory Evaluation: Exercises and lab tasks are mandatory and graded as Pass/Fail. Extensions are generally not granted, though in special cases they can be arranged with the course instructor.
• Passing Requirement: 80% of exercises/lab tasks must be approved before the exam.
• Point System: A point system is established for lab activities and submission tasks.
• Exam Eligibility: 80% of exercises/lab tasks (points) must be approved to be eligible for the exam.
• Final Exam: A 4-hour written exam, using Aid Class C.