The aim of this book is to motivate students into learning Machine Analysis by reinforcing theory and applications. As an example, students currently learn kinematic analysis of linkage systems by calculating velocity and acceleration of a linkage mechanism in one ‘freeze frame’ position. As a result, they achieve solutions in the form of vectors, and the results have no real meaning because they are not a complete solution. In order to get a complete understanding, the author suggests that students need to calculate velocity and acceleration for one complete cycle of motion of the mechanism. From this more complete model, students are able to plot acceleration curves for the motion of the mechanisms and learn in a more visual manner. This approach will make the learning process more effective, and it will also give students a useful tool to use as practicing engineers.

The author uses an enthusiastic hands-on approach by including figures of actual mechanisms in place of abstract line illustrations, and directs students towards developing their own software for mechanism analysis using programs such as Excel and MATLAB®.

An accompanying website includes instructor materials (PowerPoint and solutions manual).