ME 240 Winter 2000

Computer Assignment #2: Part 2: Two-bar linkage

Due date: Friday March 10, 2000

Problem Statement: In this part of the assignment, you will use matlab to simulate the kinematics of a slightly less complicated system.

The Working Model file for this assignment is called "2bar-piston". For instructions on downloading the file and running Working Model, click here.

  • Questions

    • Working Model

    1. Set the angular acceleration of the bar to 5 rad/s^2 and run the simulation.
    2. Write a matlab program to simulate the same motion (using an angular acceleration of 5 rad/s^2). Run the simulation for 3 seconds create plots of the angle of bar 1 as a function of time, the velocity of mass 3 as a function of time and the position of mass 3 as a function of time. Compare with the Working model plots and discuss any inconsistencies (also, which do you believe more matlab or working model). Also plot the acceleration of mass 3 as a function of time.
    3. What is the net force on mass 3?

    Hint: See the piston example from Solved Dynamics Problems for a discussion of the kinematics (the FBD is not necessary for the first part of this problem).