INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIAL (MANUAL)

FOR

MEEN 30133: MACHINE ELEMENTS 1

I want to invent aick

…kaloka kuya…magbasa
machine but I kaya ako ng librong
have no Wi-Fi
invention
Click here to view Almanac…
existing
inventions

Kung wala kang

CAD kuya, eto
muna gamitin…

…WORRY NOT…PROF. ED
WIIL DEMYSTIFY YOU…
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mas maganda toh kuya, mechanism

simulation program gaya ng SAM 8.0,
mamili ka lang sa mga free trial ha…

Compiled by:

Prof. Eduael G. Usal, ME, MBM

Faculty, Mechanical Engineering
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Department, College of Engineering

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Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
MANUAL OVERVIEW
This Instructional Material aims to prepare you to the rigors of Mechanical Engineering Practice,
in the of field Machine Design in general, and Machine Elements 1 in particular

Analysis of and Synthesis of linkages are the concerns of your subject, Machine Elements 1,
two essentials of Machine Design.

Kinematic analysis is the determination of motion inherent in a given mechanism while

Kinematic synthesis is the reverse problem: it is the determination of mechanisms that are to
fulfill certain motion specifications.

Machine Design Process Kinematic Synthesis

Kinematic Analysis Brainstorming

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Module No. Topics Page No.

0 Manual Overview 3
1 Machine Elements 1 Structure 4-5

2 Fundamental Concepts 6-12

3 Kinematic Analysis of Mechanisms 13-19

4 Kinematic Synthesis of Mechanisms 20-27

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
MODULE 1: MACHINE ELEMENTS 1 STRUCTURE
GENERAL OBJECTIVES OF THE MANUAL
After extensive perusal of the manual, you will be equipped with following:

o capacity to explain the constitution, of a linkage and how the combination work together
to produce motion or transform force.
o proficient in using computer simulation programs in developing linkage, mechanism and
machines.
o able to use of use inversion of linkages to modify motion of the parts especially the
output motion of a system.
o capability to analyze motion of part/s of a linkage using customary methods and
computer simulated programs.
o proficient in oral and written communication, a must in the preparation of quality
technical reports of generated ideas to effectively educate would be users.
o team spirit to collaborate with other students to create ideas that lead to devices of great
importance to mankind.
o abreast of the emerging new technologies in mechanical design and industrial
processes.

Laboratory Student Deportment

o strictly observe 5S inside the laboratory room;

o use proper laboratory attire and/or personal protective equipment (PPE) whenever
necessary;
o do not touch anything with which you are not completely familiar;
o carelessness may break valuable equipment and may also cause serious injury to you
and others;
o follow instructions precisely as instructed by your professor;
o do not crowd around the equipment or do horseplay inside the laboratory;

INTRODUCTION

One of the main objects of designing a mechanism is to develop a system that transforms
motion in a specific way to provide mechanical advantage or special effect that can benefits
humankind.

A typical problem in mechanism design is coordinating the input and output motions.

A mechanism designed to produce a specified output as a function of input is called a function

generator. Such a function generator which is capable of producing an output has found a wide
variety of applications.
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A system that transmits forces in a predetermined manner to accomplish specific work is a

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machine. A mechanism is the heart of a machine.

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
A mechanism is comprised of a series of connected moving parts, which provide the specific
motions and forces to do the work for which the machine is designed.

A machine is usually driven by a motor which supplies constant speed and power. It is the
mechanism, which transforms this applied motion into the form demanded to perform the
required task.

The study of mechanisms takes on new significance much more so that of the intricacies of
design of instruments, automatic controls, and automated equipment, the study of mechanisms
takes on new significance.

Once a need for a machine or mechanism with given characteristics is identified, the design
process begins.

Detailed analysis of displacements, velocities and accelerations is a requirement.

Kinematics is the study of motion without considering mass. The study of motions in machines
is considered from the two different points of view generally identified as kinematic analysis
and kinematic synthesis.

Kinematic analysis is the determination of motion inherent in a given mechanism.

Kinematic synthesis is the reverse problem: it is the determination of mechanisms that are to
fulfill certain motion specifications.

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
MODULE 2: FUNDAMENTAL CONCEPTS
Overview

The module will introduce to you the basic needs in preparing to develop links or linkages that
are essential machine elements that comprise mechanisms

It is important to know that a linkage is composed of links, connected together by a joint/s, which
allows harmonious motion of the parts, thus producing a desirable output.

Basic Links of a Linkage

Binary tertiary quaternary

2 nodes 3 nodes 4 nodes

Example of a linkage having a

binary and tertiary nodes and
are connected by pin
connections

Definition of Terms

o connecting rod: a rod that connects cranks or other links via joints. This link is otherwise
known as floating link or
o frame: otherwise known as ground link is a stationary link that support or guide other
link.
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o axis of rotation/oscillation: a grounded link where a crank rotates or oscillates.

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o crank: a crank which rotates relative to the frame.

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
 o rocker: a crank that oscillates/rotates about a fixed axis of oscillation.
o crank-rocker mechanism: four bar linkage comprising of a rotating crank and
oscillating/rocking crank.
o double-crank mechanism: four bar linkage wherein both cranks rotate
o double-rocker mechanism: a four bar linkage wherein both cranks oscillates In
mechanical engineering,
o kinematic chain is an assembly of rigid bodies connected by joints to provide
constrained (or desired) motion that is the mathematical model for a mechanical
system.

Module II Objectives

After successful completion of the module you should poses the following attributes:

o capacity to explain the constitution, of a linkage and how the combination work together
to produce motion or transform force.
o proficient in using computer simulation programs in developing linkage, mechanism and
machines.
o able to use of use inversion of linkages to modify motion of the parts especially the
output motion of a system.
o capability to analyze motion of part/s of a linkage using customary methods and
computer simulated programs.
o abreast of the emerging new technologies in mechanical design and industrial processes

Linkage

A system of rigid links (bars) connected to two or more other links by pin joints (hinges), sliding
joints, or ball-and-socket joints so as to form a closed chain or a series of closed chains.

When one of the links is fixed, the possible movements of the other links relative to the fixed link
will depend on the number of links and the number and types of joints.

A crank and rocker is a four-bar linkage, a mechanism that converts uniform rotary to oscillatory
motion, it is the most commonly used mechanism in machine design.

Kinematic chain

A system of links, which either are joined together or are in contact with one another in a
manner that permits them to move relative to one another.

Constrained kinematic chain is a system of links wherein the motion of a link causes the
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motion of other links in a definite and predictable positions.

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
 Unconstrained kinematic chain is one in which the motions of driven link/s are not
predetermined.

Pair
A pair is a joint between the surfaces of two rigid bodies that keeps them in
contact and relatively movable, two types of pair:
o lower
o higher

Lower Pairs

Pairs with surface contacts, one envelops the other (ex. Piston and cylinder contact, pin and
link contact of a pin connection etc.)

Lower Pair Joints

Examples

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Higher Pairs

Higher pairs are point-, line, or curve-contact pairs. Ex. ball bearing (ball and race contact),
roller bearing (roller and race contact), gears teeth contact, cam and follower contact, etc.

Degrees of Freedom
Degrees of freedom (DOF) of a rigid body is the number of its independent movements.
Planar Degrees of Freedom (DOF) 2D

DOF of the bar in the fig. could be determined by the number of distinct ways it can be moved
and are as follows:

o translation along x axis;

o translation along y axis; and
o rotation about its centroid.

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Spatial Degrees of Freedom

(DOF) 3D

An unrestrained rigid body in space has six degrees of freedom: three

translating motions along the x, y and z axes and three rotary motions
around the x, y and z axes respectively

Degrees of Freedom of Joints

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Degrees of Freedom of Joints…

Topic exercises

o Draw a simple wiper kinematic diagram using CAD or drafting instruments and show the
extreme positions of the wiper/s.

o Draw a crank and rocker four-bar linkage and show the extreme positions of the rocker.

o Give the number of DOF of the following:

1. Prismatic joint
2. Revolute joint
3. Sliding pair

o Give the type of pair of the following:

1. Meshing gear teeth

2. Plate cam and roller follower
3. Piston and cylinder
4. Ball bearing and race.
5. Screw thread system, inner and outer screw.
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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Topic Questions

o Explain the constitution, of a linkage and how the combination work together to produce
motion or transform force.
o Explain the effect of inversion of linkages in modifying motion of the parts especially the
output motion of a system.
o Write a technical report about emerging new technologies in mechanical design and
industrial processes

References
o Design of Machine Elements by VB Bhandari
o Mechanical Engineering Design by J.E. Shigley
o Analysis and Design of Machine Elements by V.K.
o J. J. Uicker, G. R. Pennock, and J. E. Shigley, Theory of Machines and Mechanisms, Fifth Ed., Oxford
University Press, 2016
o L. W. Tsai, Mechanism Design: Enumeration of Kinematic Structures According to Function, CRC
Press, 2000
o Bernard J. Hamrock, Steven R. Schmid, Bo O. Jacobson McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2007
- Technology & Eng Fundamentals of Machine Elements

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
MODULE 3: KINEMATIC ANALYSIS OF LINKAGES
Overview

Breaking up the mechanism into separate vectors and components allows us to create a kinematic
analysis that can solve for the maximum velocity, acceleration, and force the mechanism is capable
of, in three-dimensional space.

This module inculcates you ways on how to conceptualize different linkages in consideration
of their geometrical construction and motions.

A mechanical linkage is a series of rigid links connected with joints to form a closed chain, or a
series of closed chains.

Each link has two or more joints, and the joints have various degrees of freedom to allow motion
between the links.

A linkage is called a mechanism if two or more links are movable with respect to a fixed link.

Mechanical linkages are usually designed to take an input and produce a different output,
altering the motion, velocity, acceleration, and applying mechanical advantage.

Simple Linkage of Paper Puncher Simple Linkage of Engine

Objectives of the Module

After successfully comprehending module 2, you should have gained the ability to:

o proficient in using computer simulation programs in developing linkage, mechanism and

machines
o identify the different types of linkages that gives the desired output motion for a specific
application.
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o capacity to explain the constitution, of a linkage and how the combination work together
to produce motion or transform force.
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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
 o able to use of use inversion of linkages to modify motion of the parts especially the
output motion of a system.
o capability to analyze motion of part/s of a linkage using customary methods and
computer simulated programs.

Kinematic Diagram

A simplified drawing of a kinematic chain, mechanism, or machine, comprising details

that of are only requisite in the movement of parts.

Symbols for Kinematic Diagram

(a) Is a pin connection (b) is a crank that rotates on a fixed axis of rotation or
oscillation (c) are different forms of sliding members

Linkages are comprised of open chains, closed chains, or a combination of both. Joints
connects either one or more links, thus forming a kinematic chain.
Mechanical linkages transform a given input force and movement into a desired output force
and movement.
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Mechanical advantage of the linkage is ratio of the output force to the input force is, while the
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ratio of the input speed to the output speed is the speed ratio.

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
A kinematic chain is a mechanism if one link is fixed or stationary, while a structure is a
stationary linkage.
KINEMATICS & DYNAMICS OF MECHANISMS

Kinematics of mechanisms is concerned with the motion of the parts without considering how
the influencing factors (force and mass) affect the motion. Kinematics deals with the
fundamental concepts of space and time and the quantities velocity and acceleration derived
there from.

Inversion of Linkages

Linkages

o crank and rocker

o toggle
o straight line
o drag link
o parallel

Crank and Rocker Mechanism

A four-bar linkage with two cranks, one rotates while the other rocks or oscillates.

Application

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Toggle Mechanism

A mechanism that converts a small amount of input force to a greater amount output force.

Application

Straight Line Mechanism

A mechanism that generates a straight line or semi- straight line output path.

Watt Straight Line Mechanism

Watt's linkage is a type of mechanical linkage invented by James Watt in which the central
moving point of the linkage is constrained to travel on a nearly straight line.

Sheering Machine Rock Crusher

Application

Car Stabilizer

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Drag link

A mechanism where the shortest link is the frame, both cranks rotate, one with a
uniform speed while the other has a varying speed.

Boat Paddle Wheel

Parallel Mechanism
A mechanism having two rotatable cranks and that the sides are always parallel.

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Application

Pantograph and Scissor Mechanisms are Parallel Comprised of Parallel Links

Inversion of Linkages (reproduced)

Topic Exercises
You can use Sam 8.0 program, other computer programs or your drafting instruments

o Plot the kinematic diagram of a four-bar linkage having links of 10cm, 12cm, 14cm and
16 cm.
 If the ground link or frame is the longest and the rotating crank id the shortest,
what type or types of linkage is/are generated?
 If the ground link is the shortest link and the longest link is the connecting rod
what type of linkage is generated?
 If the ground link is the longest, and the floating being the shortest, what type of
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linkage is generated?
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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Topic Questions
o Explain how the different types of linkages produce the desired output motion for a
specific application.
o explain the constitution, of a linkage and how the combination work together to produce
motion or transform force.
o Explain how inversion of linkages modify motion of the parts especially the output motion
of a system.
o Show how the motion of part/s of a linkage using customary methods and computer
simulated programs like SAM 8.0.

Videos Computer Programs

https://youtu.be/whuIVUIVWig

References
o Design of Machine Elements by VB Bhandari
o Mechanical Engineering Design by J.E. Shigley
o Analysis and Design of Machine Elements by V.K.
o J. J. Uicker, G. R. Pennock, and J. E. Shigley, Theory of Machines and Mechanisms, Fifth Ed., Oxford
University Press, 2016
o L. W. Tsai, Mechanism Design: Enumeration of Kinematic Structures According to Function, CRC
Press, 2000
o Bernard J. Hamrock, Steven R. Schmid, Bo O. Jacobson McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2007
- Technology & Eng Fundamentals of Machine Elements

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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
MODULE 4: SYNTHESIS OF MECHANISMS
Overview
In this module you will learn how correct mechanisms are being chosen or combined together to
form a mechanical device.

Synthesis of mechanism is applied to conceptualize the right combination of correctly

proportioned moving and stationary components, assembled and joined as to enable the
liberation, transformation and utilization of input energy.

Synthesis uses imagination, technical knowledge, and scientific principles, to develop a

mechanical system to perform technical functions that offers solution to a problem.

The product of synthesis is a machine, a combination of linkages having definite motion and
capable of performing useful work.

Brainstorming

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Synthesis of Mechanism

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
In machine design, no standard procedure or rigid rules are being specified for the designer, but
the following steps are generally followed:

o problem to be solved or desired purpose of the machine is completely and clearly stated.
o possible mechanisms that will provide the desired motion or set of motions are selected.
o forces acting on and energy transmitted by each element of the machine are
determined.
o best suitable material is selected for each of the machine element.
o allowable values of stress and deflection are determined for each machine element,
depending upon its material and functional requirements.
o size and shape of each machine element is determined so that it can withstand the
applied loads without failure.
o dimensions of the machine elements are modified considering manufacturing aspects.
o assembly and detailed drawings of the machine are made with complete specification of
materials and manufacturing methods.

MODULE IV OBJECTIVES

After successfully finishing the topic, you should have the ability to:

o generate ideas/concepts through brainstorming, for a device that will solve a technical
problem of humanity;
o combine the appropriate links, to realize desired motion output;
o choose linkages to combine and form a mechanism that will produce a desired output;
o adept in the use computer programs in scheduling and materials-take-off to enhance the
process of processing the realization of ideas and concepts;
o skill in the process of linkage assembly;
o proficient in oral and written communication, a must in the preparation of quality
technical reports of generated ideas/concept to effectively educate and persuade would
be users through pitching and presentations in national and international setting.

Kinematic synthesis, also known as mechanism synthesis, determines the size and
configuration of mechanisms that shape the flow of power through a mechanical system,
or machine, to achieve a desired performance.
Synthesis refers to combining parts to form a whole.
Hartenberg and Denavit describe kinematic synthesis as
...it is design, the creation of something new. Kinematically, it is the conversion of a
motion idea into hardware.
Three general phases of kinematic synthesis for a mechanical system:
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o type synthesis;
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o number synthesis; and

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
o dimensional synthesis.
Type synthesis matches the general characteristics of a mechanical system to the task,
selecting from an array of devices such as a cam-follower mechanism, linkage, gear train, a
fixture or a robotic system for use in a required task.
Number synthesis considers the various ways a particular device can be constructed,
generally focused on the number and features of the parts.
Dimensional synthesis determines the geometry and assembly of the components that
form the device.
Linkage Synthesis
A linkage is an assembly of links and joints designed to provide required force and movement.
Before starting dimensional synthesis, the number of bars, joint types, and the configuration of
the links and joints are determined.
Dimensional synthesis of linkages begins with a task defined as the movement of an output link relative
to a base reference frame.

Three general tasks for dimensional synthesis;

path generation, the trajectory of a point in the output link is required,
motion generation, the trajectory of the output link is required, and
function generation the movement of the output link relative to an input link is required.

The trajectory and motion requirements for dimensional synthesis are defined as sets of
either instantaneous positions or finite positions.

Instantaneous positions is a convenient way to describe requirements on the differential

properties of the trajectory of a point or body, which are geometric versions of velocity, acceleration
and rate of change of acceleration. The mathematical results that support instantaneous position
synthesis are called curvature theory.[13]
Finite-position synthesis has a task defined as a set of positions of the moving body relative to a
base frame, or relative to an input link. A crank that connects a moving pivot to a base pivot
constrains the center of the moving pivot to follow a circle. This yields constraint equations that
can be solved graphically using techniques developed by L. Burmester,[14] and called Burmester
theory
Brain Storming
Brainstorming is a group creativity technique by which efforts are made to find a conclusion for a
specific problem by gathering a list of ideas spontaneously contributed by its members.
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In other words, brainstorming is a situation where a group of people meets to generate new ideas
and solutions around a specific domain of interest by removing inhibitions. People are able to think
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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
more freely and they suggest as many spontaneous new ideas as possible. All the ideas are noted
down without criticism and after the brainstorming session the ideas are evaluated.

Four Rules in Brainstorming

o go for quantity: this rule is a mean of enhancing divergent production, aiming at facilitation
of problem solution through the maxim quantity breeds quality. the assumption is that the
greater the number of ideas generated the bigger the chance of producing a radical and
effective solution.
o withhold criticism: in brainstorming, criticism of ideas generated should be put 'on hold'.
Instead, participants should focus on extending or adding to ideas, reserving criticism for a
later 'critical stage' of the process. by suspending judgment, participants will feel free to
generate unusual ideas.
o welcome wild ideas: to get a good long list of suggestions, wild ideas are encouraged. they
can be generated by looking from new perspectives and suspending assumptions. these
new ways of thinking might give you better solutions.
o combine and improve ideas: as suggested by the slogan "1+1=3", is believed to stimulate
the building of ideas by a process of association.
Methods of Improving Brainstorming Sessions
There are a number of ways that groups can improve the effectiveness and quality of their
brainstorming sessions

o stick to the rules: brainstorming rules should be followed, and feedback should be given
to members that violate these rules, violations of brainstorming rules tend to lead to
mediocre ideas.
o pay attention to everyone's ideas: people tend to pay more attention to their own ideas,
however brainstorming requires exposure to the ideas of others. a method to encourage
members to pay attention to others’ ideas is to make them list the ideas out or ask them to
repeat others’ ideas.
o take breaks: allow silence during group discussions so that members have time to think
things through.
o do not rush: allow lots of time for members to complete the task, although working under
pressure tends to lead to more solutions initially, the quality is usually lower than if more time
is spent on the task.
o stay persistent: members should stay focused and persist at the task even when productivity
is low.
o facilitate the session: a skilled discussion leader should lead and coordinate the
brainstorming sessions, able to motivate members, correct mistakes, and provide a clear
standard of work, they can also be used to keep track of all the ideas and make sure that
these ideas are available to everyone.
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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Electronic brainstorming (EBS)
See also: Brainstorming software, Electronic meeting system, and Computer supported
brainstorming

Compared to face-to-face brainstorming, not only does EBS enhanced efficiency by eliminating
travelling and turn-taking during group discussions, it also excluded several psychological
constraints associated with face-to-face meetings.
Computer supported brainstorming may overcome some of the challenges faced by traditional
brainstorming methods.
According to a meta-analysis comparing EBS to face-to-face brainstorming EBS has been found to
enhance both the production of non-redundant ideas and the quality of ideas produced.
This technique has been used particularly in the field of new product development, but can be
applied in any number of areas requiring collection and evaluation of ideas.[22]
Some limitations of EBS include the fact that it can flood people with too many ideas at one time that
they have to attend to, and people may also compare their performance to others by analyzing how
many ideas each individual produces (social matching).

Technical writing
a type of writing where the author is writing about a particular subject that
requires direction, instruction, or explanation. This style of writing has a very
different purpose and different characteristics than other writing styles such as
creative writing, academic writing or business writing.
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Technical writing is a highly valuable skill. It is crucial for anyone working in a tech-related
business, for engineers and scientists communicating their knowledge, and for people looking
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for rewarding, full-time work as writers.

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Technical reports are written to provide information, analysis, instructions and/or
recommendations. These reports provide the reader with enough background on a topic to be
informed and potentially make decisions.
Example: a technical report on one phase of a company’s manufacturing process. The
report includes information on how this phase impacts the product, the process itself,
and recommendations for optimization.

Technical manuals provide instructions on how to use a device or program. The reader is the
user or sometimes a developer of that product.

Examples: user manual for a vehicle; instruction manual for an alarm clock; developer’s
manual for a computer program

Emails are a brief form of communication, which vary depending on the goal. Generally, they
intend to share information, with a potential additional use to persuade or instruct.
Example: an email written to all employees with an update on human resource policy
changes.

Technical proposals provide an introduction to a new project. It describes the purpose, the
planned phases or tasks, methods to be employed, expected results and benefits, and a
budget. A proposal acts as an outline for the project if accepted. Proposals do not necessarily
need to have a budget, as it may propose cost-free changes.

Examples: a technical proposal from a franchisee to a retail company to open a new

location. The proposal includes real estate details, renovation and operations plans,
revenue expectations, and project costs.
Specifications are a detailed outline of the structure, design, materials, packaging, and
standards of a product or process with a level of detail that allows an external party to construct
or reconstruct it.

Example: an architect provides specifications for construction of a house to a building

contractor.
A Standard Operation Procedure (SOP) is a collection of step-by-step instructions, normally
for workers, to complete routine processes. A SOP aims to increase consistency, quality and
compliance of repeat operations.

o Example: laboratory employees use a standard operating procedure to complete

potable water analysis.

The active voice is easier to read and understand than the passive voice. In active voice, the
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subject of the sentence is the doer of the action.

Passive Example: The electricity meter is read six times a year by a trained technician.
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Active Example: A trained technician reads the meter six times a year.

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Choose your words thoughtfully. Use the best word for the context. Include necessary details
that make the text understandable and precise. Avoid overusing pronouns such as ‘it’ and ‘this’
as the reader may have difficulty identifying the antecedent.

Example: If the light flashes, then initiate a hard restart by pressing the power button.
Improved: If the red light flashes on the monitor for more than ten seconds, then
initiate a hard restart by pressing the grey power button.

Task Based Approach

Technical writing must be clear and direct, so there is no need to add color or complexity.

Example: It is of the utmost importance to drain the water pump after each usage. If not
drained, the pump will corrode.
Improved: It is important to drain the water pump after each use to avoid corrosion.
Example: Q1 had lower than expected sales due to political instability in the region.
Improved: Sales for Q1 declined because of political instability in the region.

Jargon is a trap for a technical writer. If you’re an expert in your field, it can be easy to use
jargon familiar to your topic or office, without realizing that it may be confusing to other readers.
A non-expert may use jargon as an ill-intentioned effort to appeal to experts.

Example: The WHO provides clear directives on the use of malaria medication.
Improved: The World Health Organization (WHO) provides clear directives on the use
of malaria medication.

Using fewer words or more basic versions of words will communicate the same meaning to
your reader while being more accessible.
Example: At the present time, our research focuses on the utilization of the drug to
completely eliminate measles.
Improved: At present, our research focuses on the use of the drug
to eliminate measles.

Visual Formatting
While the heart of a technical document is its text, the visual display should not be forgotten. A
wall of text is difficult to read. Even the clearest instructions can be lost in a document that has
poor visual representation.
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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
Topic Exercises

o In a mechanical lift using scissor or parallel mechanism, show how

you are going to connect a drive that will actuate and depress the
lift.
o Using the same lift, how are you going to measure the maximum
height of lift?
o Give the reason why a drag link mechanism is used for water wheel
to propel a boat.
o What makes a toggle mechanism the choice when there is a need
for greater force output is needed?
o Use SAM 8.0 or other computer simulation pro programs to analyze
the mechanisms discussed in this module:

Topic Questions

o Explain scientific ways in generating ideas or concepts that solve technical problems
o Explain the how the brain storming process work.
o Explain synthesis of mechanisms, as to how they are systematically arranged for
links to move in harmony;
o Why do you need to be skilled in linkage assembly?
o Explain how linkages are chosen and combined to form a mechanism that will
generate a desired output.
o How do computer programs help in the you in kinematic analysis and synthesis of
mechanisms.
o What is the significance of being proficient in oral and written communication?
o Why there is a need to present or pitch an idea/concept/output to stakeholders?

Links for Suggested Reading Video Viewing

o https://youtu.be/aPzDGXXbwKQ
o https://youtu.be/7LpHf0ssIb8

References

o Design of Machine Elements by VB Bhandari

o Mechanical Engineering Design by J.E. Shigley
o Analysis and Design of Machine Elements by V.K.
o J. J. Uicker, G. R. Pennock, and J. E. Shigley, Theory of Machines and Mechanisms, Fifth Ed., Oxford
University Press, 2016
27

o L. W. Tsai, Mechanism Design: Enumeration of Kinematic Structures According to Function, CRC

Press, 2000
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Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila
o Bernard J. Hamrock, Steven R. Schmid, Bo O. Jacobson McGraw-Hill Higher Education, 2007
- Technology & Eng Fundamentals of Machine Elements

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Page

Prepared by Prof. Eduael G. Usal, Faculty, M. E. Dept. College of Eng’g, P. U. P., Manila