a great deal in that time, from a traditional approach, emphasizing graphical analysis of
many structured problems, through emphasis on algebraic methods as computers be-
came available, through requiring students to write their own computer programs, to
the current state described above.
The one constant throughout has been the attempt to convey the art of the design pro-
cess to the students in order to prepare them to cope with
real
engineering problems in
practice. Thus, the author has always promoted design within these courses. Only re-
cently, however, has technology provided a means to more effectively accomplish this
goal, in the form of the graphics microcomputer. This text attempts to be an improve-
ment over those currently available by providing up-to-date methods and techniques for
analysis and synthesis which take full advantage of the graphics microcomputer, and by
emphasizing design as well as analysis.
The text also provides a more complete, mod-
em, and thorough treatment of cam design than existing texts in print on the subject.
The author has written several interactive, student-friendly computer programs for
the design and analysis of mechanisms and machines. These programs are designed to
enhance the student's understanding of the basic concepts in these courses while simul-
taneously allowing more comprehensive and realistic problem and project assignments
to be done in the limited time available, than could ever be done with manual solution
techniques, whether graphical or algebraic. Unstructured, realistic design problems which
have many valid solutions are assigned. Synthesis and analysis are equally emphasized.
The analysis methods presented are up to date, using vector equations and matrix tech-
niques wherever applicable. Manual graphical analysis methods are de-emphasized. The
graphics output from the computer programs allows the student to see the results of vari-
ation of parameters rapidly and accurately and reinforces learning.
These computer programs are distributed, on CD-ROM, with this book which also
contains instructions for their use on any IBM compatible, Windows 3.1 or Windows 95/
NT capable computer. The earlier DOS versions of these programs are also included for
those without access to Windows. Programs SLIDER,FOURBAR,FIVEBARand SIXBARan-
alyze the kinematics of those types of linkages. Program FOURBARalso does a complete
dynamic analysis of the fourbar linkage in addition to its kinematics. Program DYNACAM
allows the design and dynamic analysis of cam-follower systems. Program ENGINEan-
alyzes the slider-crank linkage as used in the internal combustion engine and provides a
complete dynamic analysis of single and multicylinder engine configurations, allowing
the mechanical dynamic design of engines to be done. Program MATRIXis a general pur-
pose linear equation system solver. All these programs, except MATRIX,provide dynam-
ic, graphical animation of the designed devices. The reader is strongly urged to make use
of these programs in order to investigate the results of variation of parameters in these ki-
nematic devices. The programs are designed to enhance and augment the text rather than
be a substitute for it. The converse is also true. Many solutions to the book's examples
and to the problem sets are provided on the CD-ROM as files to be read into these pro-
grams. Many of these solutions can be animated on the computer screen for a better dem-
onstration of the concept than is possible on the printed page. The instructor and students
are both encouraged to take advantage of the computer programs provided. Instructions
for their use are in Appendix A.
The author's intention is that synthesis topics be introduced first to allow the
students to work on some simple design tasks early in the term while still mastering