Finding the parametric equation of a curve

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on parameterizing a curve that allows an equilateral triangle, with a height of 3R, to roll from one vertex to the next while maintaining a constant height for its center. The user defines the curve as ##f(t)=(x(t),y(t))## and establishes the relationship between the curve length and the triangle's side length using the sine rule, resulting in the equation ##l=\frac{2R\sin(t)}{\sin(\frac{2\pi}{3}-t)}##. The user also derives the tangential and normal unit vectors of the curve, but expresses confusion on how to proceed further. A hint provided by another user leads to the eventual solution.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of parametric equations in calculus
  • Familiarity with the sine rule in trigonometry
  • Knowledge of vector calculus, specifically unit vectors
  • Basic concepts of curve parameterization
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of parametric equations for curves in calculus
  • Learn about the application of the sine rule in geometric problems
  • Explore vector calculus, focusing on tangential and normal vectors
  • Investigate examples of rolling motion in physics and their mathematical representations
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Students studying calculus, geometry enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the mathematical modeling of motion, particularly in relation to curves and rolling objects.

Westlife
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Homework Statement


Parameterize the part of the curve which allows an equilateral triangle, with the height 3R, to roll from one vertex to the next one, while its center travels at a constant height.

Homework Equations


I will include some pictures to show what I'm doing

The Attempt at a Solution


Hey I'm just checking soo far if I have the right idea.

let ##f(t)=(x(t),y(t))## be our curve

Here I defined the parameter ##t## to be the angel between the height and the point at which the triangle intersects the curve .
20181210_155949.jpg


I said that the length of ##f## has to be equal to the length of the side from the vertex to the point of intersection and using the sine rule I got.
20181210_160135.jpg


so the length of the curve is ##l=\frac{2R\sin(t)}{\sin(\frac{2\pi}{3}-t)}##
so from the arc length equation we know that ##\sqrt{x'^2+y'^2}=l##
the tangential unit vector of the curve is ##(x',y')/l## and the normal unit vector is ##(-y',x')/l##
Here i defined the curve of the center of the triangle to be ##S(t)=(m(t),n(t))## where
$$n(t)=y(t)+\lambda y'/l +Rx'/l=2R\quad \lambda=\frac{R\sin(60-t)}{sin(30+t)}$$
Where I got lambda from using the sine rule again.
And now I'm lost. I don't know how to continue from here
 

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Last edited:
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Hello Westlife,

Here is a nice hint ...
 
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Thank you I was able to find the solutin once I saw the video
 

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