Meaning

MACHINE DESIGN

With some notion of arrangement of machine elements, we may begin the calculations. From
data, such as the work done or power consumed, we compute forces on each part for a sequence of
positions of the machine’s cycle using the principles of mechanics then we 1design each element so that
it will perform its allotted function without failure.

We must necessarily use the principles of strength of materials, but this course should not be
thought of as a review of those principles. Rather, it is an application to engineering problems with the
aim of finding suitable dimensions of the machine elements. In the process the designer makes a stress
analysis, deciding upon the points in the various parts subjected to the maximum stress conditions (and
the kind of stress).

Since it is seldom possible to use any theoretical equation to determine a dimension and adopt
the result unthinkingly, the important requisite now is judgement. Computed results only provide
evidence for eventual decisions.

FOR THE STUDENTS

Education without misrepresentation is impossible. There are so many things that need to be
said at once to the beginner that many statements must be simplifications in order to be intelligible. For
pedagogical reasons, safe design procedures are often given in this book – usually into too much detail.
Although it is a convenience to the teacher to be confronted with some uniformity of approach for
grading purposes, there are likely to be other “correct” points of view. Your teacher or supervisor may
ask for another. After few years of experience, your conclusions will rest more and more on your own
background, but it is hoped that you will always be in search of better design approaches. Since there is
no single correct answer to a design problems unless the procedure is specified correctly, including the
design factor and the material, your instructor is more interested on how you attack a problem and in
the decisions you make than in the results. Therefore, work for a good solution, not so much for an
answer.

In any subject, there is a certain amount of new language to be learned. Since difficulty with a
new subject is often synonymous with an ignorance of the language of the subject, pay close attention
to new words, making a real effort to master them. Comprehending study prior to working a problem is
truly a time – saver, student practice to the contrary notwithstanding. The attitudes that you might
begin to acquire have been expressed in Report on Engineering Design from which the following is
quoted:

1) Willingness to proceed in the face of incomplete and often contradictory data and incomplete
knowledge of the problem.
2) Recognition of the necessity of developing and using engineering judgement.
 3) Questioning attitude toward every piece of information, every specification, every method,
every result.
4) Recognition of experiment as the ultimate arbiter.
5) Willingness to assume final responsibility for a useful result.

Engineering is the art of applying the physical sciences to the solution of the problems of
mankind. If, after completion of your study of this book, you feel somewhat knowledgeable yet
uncertain, our aim will have been at least partially accomplished. The art is never perfected. Moreover,
since uncertainty is the father of progress, only the ignorant can afford to certain. As you will see,
machine design is engineering.