How Big Should the Wheel Be Compared to the Axle for Optimal Force Output?

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Towely
  • Start date Start date
  • Tags Tags
    Machine Project
Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The optimal size ratio between the wheel and axle for achieving an output force of 8N-10N from an input force of 2N in a compound machine is crucial. In a frictionless scenario, the wheel must be at least 2x larger than the axle. However, due to the presence of friction in the metal pulleys, which limit revolutions to 3-4 before stopping, a larger wheel size is necessary to compensate for energy loss. Calculating the exact size requires accounting for frictional forces to ensure the output force is at least four times greater than the input force.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, particularly force and mechanical advantage.
  • Familiarity with the mechanics of wheels and axles in compound machines.
  • Knowledge of friction and its impact on mechanical systems.
  • Experience with pulley systems and their efficiency in force transmission.
NEXT STEPS
  • Calculate the required wheel size using the formula for mechanical advantage in wheel and axle systems.
  • Research methods to reduce friction in pulley systems, such as lubrication techniques.
  • Explore the effects of different materials on friction in mechanical systems.
  • Investigate the principles of compound machines and their efficiency in force output.
USEFUL FOR

Students in physics, engineers designing mechanical systems, and hobbyists building compound machines who seek to optimize force output and efficiency.

Towely
Messages
8
Reaction score
0
I have to make a compound machine that has an input force of 2N and an output force of 8N-10N.

So far this is what I've got.
Its a wheel and axle connected to a block and tackle.

img130.imageshack.us/img130/4974/physicsbo6.png[/URL]

How much bigger will I have to make the wheel than the axle in order to get an output force at least 4x bigger?

If it was a frictionless environment the wheel would have to be 2x bigger than the axle or more right? How much should I compensate for friction? I am using metal pulleys I bought that have bearings(or w/e they are called) in them but they do seem to have some friction. I can only get them to make about 3-4 revolutions before they stop.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
Physics news on Phys.org
Oops, can you please move this to the homework forum?
 

Similar threads

High School How come friction can make a car turn?
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
High School Questions about momentum and force as well as normal force/friction
  • · Replies 35 ·
2
Replies
35
Views
5K
Undergrad How Is the Accelerating Force Resolved at the Axle of a Wheel?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
What is the Output Force of a Wheel Axle?
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
High School Uncovering the Mystery: How a Wheel and Axle Multiply Force in Simple Machines
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
High School Calculate needed dimensions of table - Center of mass, levers etc
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K
Graduate Atwood machine with forces, not masses
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
How do I calculate forces acting on bicycle axle?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
5K
High School What is the formula for calculating RPM of a gear with a known force?
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
4K
High School How Does Blackbird Leverage Wind Power to Move Faster Than the Wind?
  • · Replies 69 ·
3
Replies
69
Views
17K