Scaling Calculations

Scaling Calculations are calculations that also consider scalability. These calculations include all relevant physical, mechanical, fluid, electrical, chemical, thermal, static, dynamic, aerodynamic, acoustic, optical, hydrological, nuclear, structural, and other properties that allow a machine to be effective for a particular purpose. Scalability is emphasized because a single design should be adaptable to different scales of operation via Intensive and Extensive Scalability

The typical calculations for consideration are:

1. Weight and center of gravity calculations
2. Range of motion
3. Power output
4. Hydraulic fluid flow and pressure
5. CAE analysis for structural failure, fatigue, deformation, abrasion, thermal properties, and others
6. Basic static loads analysis of mechanical devices
7. Rotation speeds
8. Bending forces
9. Shear strength limits
10. Thermal losses
11. Geometrical optics
12. Torque calculations
13. Shaft bending
14. Rotational inertia
15. Basic force calculations
16. EMF calculations
17. Thermal mass calculations
18. Combustion calculations
19. Embodied energy calculations
20. etc.

These calculations should be performed for all critical components of machines, even though the aim is not Value Engineering. In the case over-building of components for purposes of lifetime design, calculations are relevant for providing accurate assessment of safety factors and performance expectations independent of empirical performance data.

Note: a spreadsheet or education page should be included to give a crash course on each calculation for the benefit of a novice who has a working knowledge of secondary-level