Guide to machine design

This guide explains how to design a machine. It includes the following:

• Basic definitions • What standard components are included in machines (Machine elements) • How to select the right components for machines

Basic definitions

Device

A device uses power as an input to perform work as an output.

This includes smartphones or laptops, machines such as cars or robots, and appliances such as electric water boilers, etc.

Machine

A machine is a type of device that uses power as an input to perform work in the form of motion as an output. The term encompasses the entire physical system such as circuitboards, sensors, human interfaces, etc.

This includes tractors, conveyor belts, 3D printers, MRI scanners, etc.

Powertrain

A powertrain is the chain of components of a machine that converts the power input to the motion output. It does not include all the other surrounding components making up the physical system referred to as a machine.

In the ”chain” making up the power train the first component (typically a motor) is connected to an Input of power (such as a wall socket) and the last component performs an intended motion as an Output.

Drivetrain

If you exclude the first component of a powertrain (such as a motor or engine) what you have left is called a Drive train.

Drive mechanism

The drive mechanism is the last part of the powertrain or drivetrain and the part of the machine that performs the output motion.