Teaching in mechanism theory - from hands-on analysis to virtual modeling

Abstract

Besides conventional lectures and exercises, application focused training provides an excellent opportunity to enhance understanding of mechanism theory. At RWTH Aachen University such training in the form of practical courses is part of the curriculum for students of mechanical engineering. This paper presents a concept for this kind of courses. At the application of cup-holders students perform hands-on analyses of the mechanisms in order to comprehend their kinematical structure and behavior. Based on this, diverse modeling approaches are used to illustrate different aspects of kinematics and design. © Springer Science+Business Media Dordrecht 2013.