Advanced Theory of Mechanisms and Machines

Abstract

11R23. Advanced Theory of Mechanisms and Machines. Foundations of Engineering Mechanics. - MZ Kolovsky, AN Evgrafov, YA Semenov, AV Slousch (State Tech Univ, Kondratievsky 56-24, St Petersburg, 195197, Russia). Springer-Verlag, Berlin. 2000. 394 pp. ISBN 3-540-67168-4. $109.00.Reviewed by ZW Dybczak (129 Arrowhead Dr, Montgomery AL 36117-4140).This is a textbook based on a lecture series taught by the authors for many years at the former Leningrad Polytechnic Institute (now the St Petersburg State Technical University). The academic treatment of the subject goes beyond the scope of beginning textbooks on mechanisms and dynamics of machinery. Understandably, the electric range of topics covered in this volume suggests its usefulness in didactics rather than design. A concept of degrees of movability, defined as the number of inputs (independent variables) in a more complex machine, offers the basis of multiple input analysis. Graphs and “structural diagrams” complement the topics of Chapter 1. Derivation of equations and their solution constitute geometric analysis of mechanisms (including higher kinematic pairs), in Chapter 2. Chapter 3 provides kinematic and parametric analysis of planar and spatial mechanisms including first- and second-order derivatives of position functions. The graph-analytic determination of the above (vector diagrams) is shown to be effective in the error analysis. Chapter 4 focuses on the determination of forces in mechanisms by the graph-analytic method; gravity, springs, and inertia forces are considered, leading to the general equation of dynamics (d’Alembert-Lagrange). Higher kinematic pairs (gears, cams, etc) are briefly discussed. Friction, particularly with reference to brakes, screws, etc, is well presented in Chapter 5. Unfortunately there is a confusing use of sign and sin of a function throughout Chapter 5 and to a lesser degree in other chapters. No doubt tighter proofreading in the future will correct these errors as well as numerous spelling and other first-edition errors—none of which detract from the overall merit of this work. Chapter 6 presents Lagrange’s equations of the second kind for motion in mechanisms with rigid links and several degrees of movability. Internal and external vibrations are dealt with in Chapter 7, rather briefly, especially dynamic balancing of rotors. Inertia forces in engines include only first harmonics. Dynamics of “Cycle Machines” with Rigid Links contained in Chapter 8 addresses direct-current electric and AC induction motors treated as velocity sources in various analyses of transients, steady-state, and idling conditions. There is, of course, abundant world literature on electromagnetic machinery—both on motors and generators—describing mechanical characteristics, synchronous frequency control, and rotor behavior. Chapter 9 develops models of mechanisms with elastic links, their stiffness and flexibility, and various degrees of movability. Free vibrations are stressed. Chapter 10 analyzes vibrations of machines with elastic elements, reduced stiffness, and damping, while Chapter 11 deals with vibrations of machines on elastic bases and the important area of vibration isolation. The last chapter introduces program control of machines, dynamic errors, and feedback control of closed-loop systems. Due to volume size of Advanced Theory of Mechanism and Machines, temperature effects, fatigue of elements, creep, and relaxation are not discussed. The figures and index are good; references are modest. There are over a 100 problems with answers—many with solutions.