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ME418 DYNAMICS OF MACHINERY

Course Objectives

The primary objective of this course is to provide an understanding of the machine-prime mover interaction through formulation and solution of equation of motion of a single degree-of-freedom machine. The course further aims to present some of the fundemental machine dynamics problems, such as balancing of rotating and inertia variant machines with particular emphasis on reciprocating engines, effects of friction in force transmission and friction lock, and dynamics of cam-follower systems.  More specifically;

COURSE OBJECTIVE  1: At the end of the course, the students will have acquired a through understanding of the application potential and limitations of the forward dynamic simulation in the process of mechanical design, and will be able to judge how it will complement the inverse dynamic analysis approach handled in compulsory course ME 301 in the curriculum. 

COURSE OBJECTIVE  2: At the end of the course, the students will understand the dynamic interaction between the machine and the prime mover, in particular the AC electric motor.

COURSE OBJECTIVE  3: At the end of the course, the students will have learned some additional considerations needed in order to proceed with the strength and rigidity calculations, upon rigid body dynamic analysis of  a machine. 

COURSE OBJECTIVE  4: At the end of the course, the students will appreciate the role of  balancing in eliminating or reducing vibrations, and will acquire knowledge on the balancing of  rotating machines, as well as multi-cylinder engines.

Course Content

Kinematic influence coefficients. Equation of motion and dynamic response of single degree-of-freedom machines: analytical and numerical solution methods. Shaking forces and moments. Balancing of a four-bar linkage. Dynamically equivalent mass systems. Analysis of unbalance in multi-cylinder engines. Kinetostatics: effects of dry friction, power flow in simple and planetary gear trains. Jump phenomenon in rigid cam-follower systems.

Course Learning Outcomes

• Ability to formulate the equation(s) of motion of single and multi-degree of freedom planar mechanical systems.
• Ability to solve the equation(s) of motion of single and multi-degree of freedom systems by using a suitable numerical integration method, and to interpret the simulation results.
• Ability to carry out transient response of a single DOF conservative system by using energy-integral concept.
• Ability to carry out steady-state response of a single DOF conservative system by using energy-inertia diagram.
• Ability to model transient and steady-state AC electric motor characteristics in the form of a torque-speed relation, and to couple it to the machine characteristics.
• Ability to interpret the suitability of the electric motor chosen for particular machine characteristics by way of dynamic simulation.
• Ability to correlate reaction forces with stress distribution at prismatic joints.
• Ability to identify friction lock of mechanisms involving prismatic joints.
• Ability to calculate shaking forces and moments as harmonic excitations for mechanical vibrations.
• Competence on working principles of field and in-place balancing equipment and balance standards for rotating machinery.
• Ability to analyze the effects of number of cylinders and crank arrangement on the balance conditions of multi-cylinder engines.
• Ability to analyse jump phenemenon in cam-follower systems 

Program Outcomes Matrix