Response to Questions
Qn. 1
(a) What is the difference between a machine and a tool?
A machine is a device that transfers power from one point to another. At the same time, a tool is a reasonably valued system or non-portable device that is used to expand energy to produce jobs of desired sizes. The main difference between the two is that a machine uses the power to apply forces while a tool is a non-power operator.
(b) What is the difference between a machine and a mechanism?
A machine is defined as a tool or device whose function is to transfer power from one point to another. Examples include; pulleys, chains, levers, hammers, rods, and bars. On the other hand, the mechanism is described as a system of moving parts that perform specific functions. Examples of mechanisms include idlers and collets. In brief, a mechanism makes up a machine, or a machine is a combination of mechanism. Noted by Paz et al. (2010, p.1), machines, and mechanisms are regarded concepts whose curiosities are interesting. They fall under the same level as plants, customs, and exotic animals.
QN.2
(a)
Identify two technical objects that do not fall squarely into the category of machine or tool or mechanism
(b)
Briefly describe how each one works, and why each does fit neatly into a single category
QN.3
Many early mechanisms were devised in an attempt to manage the passing of time
(a) Why did human inventiveness focus on the task of timekeeping?
Time has been recognized by many as a necessary element for life. Besides its use in the social context as a measurement tool in all human dealings, timekeeping plays a physical function such as physical measurement. The concept of time is defined as a physical quantity that can be observed and measured with a clock of electrical, physical, and mechanical nature.
(b) List one early (before 1700) timekeeping system that is not included in the class lecture, and briefly describe how it operates.
Before 1700, the pocket watch was invented as one of the devices used in time keeping. Contrary to the wristwatch, it was meant to be carried in the pocket. Generally, these kinds of watches contained an attached chain to enable them to be secured to a lapel, waistcoat, and belt loop. Also, the chain attached was to prevent it from falling. Their use was mostly linked to the military. Concerning its mode of operation, the pocket watch was made of machine made parts and had both an hour hand and the minute hand.