MENG 371 Test 2B April 7, 1999

1. (20 points) In a cars steering system, it is necessary to have the inner wheel turn at a
different radius than the outer wheel, to avoid excessive tire wear and friction. This
design synthesis can be done with the vector loop equation method. In the figure, and
are measured from the horizontal for the wheels in the straight ahead position, while 1,
2, 1 and 1 are the relative angles as compared to the straight ahead position. The
distance the rack moves, , is the same on either side, and L is the distance between the
wheel pivot and the center position of the rack. The two connecting rods have length A
and B. For the design, L, 1 and 1 are specified.
a) Write the vector loop constraint equations.
b) How many variables are there
c) How many free choices are there
d) (bonus 5 points) What equations can you use to solve for the remaining variables,
in terms of known quantities.

2 B
1 1
A
2

L
Rack and Pinion

Wheel

2. (35 points) For the fourbar slider-crank mechanism

inversion shown, perform an analytical velocity and
acceleration analysis. Write a MATLAB function which
takes as input the angles, link lengths, and input angular
velocity and acceleration, and returns the unknown
velocities and accelerations.

3. (30 points) For the fourbar linkage shown (roughly), how

would you find the unknown velocities and accelerations A B C
graphically. The input is on link A and has clockwise
velocity and acceleration. Sketch lines and give distances
(calculations) and describe the steps in the sketch.

4. (5 points) What is a reasonable guess at the magnitude of the acceleration of the space
shuttle during launch? Why would you guess this?

For the last question, please use complete sentences and your own words in your answer.

5. (10 points) What is jerk? (according to this course, dont name names:) Why do we
worry about large magnitudes of jerk in our design?