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COBEM 2023
27th International Congress of Mechanical Engineering
Hands-on Activity with an Unconventional Harmonic Oscillator
Submission Author:
Rubens Gonçalves Salsa Junior , RN
Co-Authors:
Vinícius Lamas von Sohsten, Rubens Gonçalves Salsa Junior, Fabio Dalmazzo Sanches
Presenter: Vinícius Lamas von Sohsten
doi://10.26678/ABCM.COBEM2023.COB2023-0267
Abstract
Dynamics and vibrations are core branches of mechanical engineering that play a significant role in modeling and analysis of mechanical systems. These courses provide students with a strong foundation to pursue their studies and professional careers in various fields such as design, biomechanics, mechanics of solids, mechanisms, and control. However, the abstract nature of these subjects may be problematic and, not surprisingly, some of the biggest difficulties reported by students include difficult tom understand and visualize the problems, lack of physical and mathematical tools to represent phenomena and interpret results. To overcome these challenges, educators are moving away from the theoretical approach to a balanced combination of concrete experience and analysis. To fill in the gaps that exist due to poor laboratory infrastructure in some universities, there is a tendency to create practical activities using everyday objects, just as in teaching geometry there is a preference for simplistic constructions using compass and ruler. In this regard, this paper describes a practical classroom activity for dynamics/vibrations courses that involves analyzing the rocking motion of a wooden semicylinder. The students are required to derive the nonlinear equation of motion involving the angular coordinate and linearize it under the assumption of small motions. They then determine the natural frequency of oscillation, which is compared to that of the real semicylinder when released from rest. This hands-on activity allows students to validate theoretical results by testing models they have built themselves. It also helps connect mathematical concepts with physical reality, making it easier for students to understand and visualize the problems. Practical activities such as the one described in this paper help students to actively engage with the coursework, develop practical skills, and bridge the gap between theory and practice. Additionally, it provides students with a platform to test new ideas and concepts, highlighting the importance of active learning through experimentation.
Keywords
active learning, dynamics, Vibrations, Experiments, Harmonic Motion
