How to Calculate ω in a Mechanical System

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The discussion focuses on calculating the angular velocity (ω) in a mechanical system involving a mass and a two-stage disc. Participants clarify the relationship between the velocities of different points on the disc and the body, emphasizing the concept of rolling without sliding, which means the point of contact has zero velocity relative to the surface. The axis of rotation is identified as being at point C, and the equations provided in the textbook are examined for understanding. A participant initially struggles with the concepts but ultimately resolves their confusion with assistance from others. The conversation highlights the importance of grasping the principles of motion in mechanical systems.
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Homework Statement


A mechanical system consists of body 1, having mass m1 = 54 kg, a two-stage disc 2, having mass m2 = 24 kg and radii R = 0.6 m and i = R/4 (i is the radius of inertia about the central axis, perpendicular to the disc), and two equal horizontal linear springs, each of the of a coefficient of elasticity c = 1092 N/m. A non-elastic cord of negligible mass rolled over the small stage connects the disc with body 1. The disc moves without sliding over a horizontal plane. At the initial instant body 1 is shifted down at x0 = 0.07 m and released without initial velocity. Assuming the system makes small oscillations around its equilibrium, find the differential equation of the system motion (using axis x), find the motion law x(t) and determine the natural frequency as well as the period of these oscillations. (I have attached a picture of the system)



2. Question
I don't want the solution to the whole problem, I just wanted to ask if someone could explain to me how do we take the value of ω2 with respect to the velocity of body 1, with respect to the velocity of point B and C as well. I have the equations, but I don't understand them.
In the book is written:
ω2 = V1 / (R - R/2) = 2V1 / R (why do we subtract the 2 radii)
Vc = ω2*R = 2V1 (why do we multiply by the radius of the big disc)
Vb = ω2*(3R/2) = 3V1 (why do we add the 2 radii)
where V1 is used as the first derivative of x (x with a point on top of it).

Since both, the cord and spring 2 are connected to the smaller disc, shouldn't their velocities be the same?



 

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The disk is said to roll without sliding. Where is the axis of rotation then?
 
I'm sorry I couldn't draw it, but it's at point C
 
What is the velocity of the disk at the point where it touches the plane?
 
Does that matter, because I don't know?
 
What does rolling without sliding mean to you?
 
Am.. exactly what it says, that the disc rolls, but doesn't slide. I know I have gaps in my knowledge, but my teacher is not a very good one.
 
What is sliding then?
 
To move over a surface while maintaining smooth continuous contact.
 
  • #10
Well, that is a nice definition, but it does not define anything. A ball rolling will satisfy it just as well.

Sliding really means that the points of contact of a body with a surface have a non-zero velocity with regard to the surface.

Rolling without sliding (or slipping) means that the point of contact has zero velocity. This is why rolling something (that can be rolled) is so much easier than dragging it - you don't have to overcome friction.

Now back to the problem. If the point of contact has zero velocity, where is the axis of rotation?
 
  • #11
Well, it should be through point C
 
  • #12
I do not know what your "should be" means. The question is where it is.
 
  • #13
OK, you know what, never mind, I actually managed to answer my question. Thanks for the help.
 
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