Mechanisms and Robotics
Course Overview
Mechanism analysis and design is a branch of engineering focused on studying and optimizing the motion and behavior of mechanical systems composed of interconnected parts. It involves the examination of how various components, such as linkages, gears, cams, and levers, interact with each other to produce desired movements and functions. The analysis phase typically involves applying principles of kinematics and dynamics to understand the relationships between forces, displacements, velocities, and accelerations within the system. This helps in identifying potential issues like excessive stresses, undesired vibrations, or inefficient energy transfer. The design phase utilizes this analysis to create or refine the mechanical system, selecting appropriate materials, dimensions, and geometries to achieve desired performance characteristics. Mechanism analysis and design find applications in a wide range of industries, including robotics, automotive, machinery, and manufacturing, enabling engineers to optimize the functionality, efficiency, and reliability of mechanical systems.
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Electromechanics is a field of study and engineering that focuses on the interaction between electrical and mechanical systems. It involves the understanding, analysis, and design of devices and systems that integrate electrical and mechanical components. Electromechanical systems often include motors, actuators, sensors, generators, and other devices that convert electrical energy into mechanical motion or vice versa. This field explores the principles of electromagnetism, electrical circuits, mechanics, and control theory to create devices that perform specific tasks. Examples of electromechanical systems include electric motors used in appliances and vehicles, robotic systems with sensors and actuators, and power generation systems such as wind turbines and generators. By combining electrical and mechanical principles, electromechanics enables engineers to develop innovative solutions for a wide range of applications, from industrial automation to renewable energy systems, creating more efficient and intelligent devices that bridge the gap between electrical and mechanical domains.
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In both semester courses under the close supervision of Dr. Kaipa, students were given the task to create projects in relation to his research — bio-inspired robotic mechanisms. Bio-inspired robotics draws inspiration from biological systems and applies principles of mechanisms analysis and design as well as electromechanics to develop robotic systems that imitate or replicate natural phenomena. The study of mechanisms analysis and design provides insights into the intricate movements and behaviors observed in living organisms, allowing engineers to understand and replicate them in robotic systems. This involves the design of linkages, joint mechanisms, and actuators that mimic the motions and dexterity of biological structures. Electromechanics plays a crucial role in bio-inspired robotics by enabling the integration of electrical and mechanical components to achieve biomimetic behaviors. It involves the design and control of motors, sensors, and feedback systems that emulate the electrical signals and responses observed in biological systems. By combining principles from mechanisms analysis and design with electromechanics, we were able to create bio-inspired robots that exhibit lifelike movements, sensing capabilities, and interaction with their environment. These robots find applications in fields such as healthcare, search and rescue, and exploration, where the abilities and adaptability of natural organisms are desired in artificial systems.
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Supporting Documents:
Electromechanics Hummingbird Presentation
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