Kinematics question - elevator problem

In summary, the conversation discusses programming a sequence of vertical motions for an elevator to travel a distance of 5.0m from one floor to the one directly above. The elevator's motion is subject to speed, acceleration, and jerk constraints in order to ensure a safe and comfortable ride for passengers. The conversation also includes a question about the sequence of motions needed to make the trip as fast as possible and the time it takes for the elevator to travel from one floor to the floor directly above. The use of graphs for acceleration and velocity is mentioned, but the speaker is unsure of where to start.
  • #1
drg1233
2
0
Kinematics question...?
you are asked to program a sequence of vertical motions for an elevator to take it from one floor in a building to the floor directly above, a total distance of 5.0m. In order to ensure that the ride is safe and comfortable for passengers, the elevator's motion is subject to the following constraints:

1. The speed can't be >1.0 m/s
2. The magnitude of the acceleration can't be > 0.50 m/s^2
3. The magnitude of the acceleration's rate of change ("jerk") can't be >.50m/s^3

a. What sequence of motions will get the elevator from one floor to the one directly above as fast as possible?
b. how much time does the elevator's trip take from one floor to the floor directly above?

I have some graphs of acceleration and velocity graphs, but i honestly don't really know where to start.
 
Last edited:
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  • #2
Units of "jerk" or "surge" are m/s3.
 

1. What is kinematics?

Kinematics is the branch of physics that studies the motion of objects without considering the forces that cause the motion.

2. What is the elevator problem in kinematics?

The elevator problem in kinematics involves analyzing the motion of an elevator in a building, typically in terms of its position, velocity, and acceleration.

3. What are the key equations used to solve elevator problems in kinematics?

The key equations used to solve elevator problems in kinematics are the equations of motion, which include displacement (Δx), initial velocity (v0), final velocity (v), acceleration (a), and time (t). The equations are:
Δx = v0t + ½at2
v = v0 + at
v2 = v02 + 2aΔx

4. How can I apply kinematics to solve elevator problems?

To apply kinematics to solve elevator problems, you must first identify the known and unknown quantities, then choose the appropriate equation(s) to solve for the unknown quantity. It is also important to pay attention to the direction of motion and the sign conventions for displacement, velocity, and acceleration.

5. Are there any real-life applications of the elevator problem in kinematics?

Yes, there are many real-life applications of the elevator problem in kinematics. For example, engineers use kinematics to design elevators and ensure their safe and efficient operation. Kinematics is also used in the study of car accidents to analyze the motion of vehicles during collisions. Additionally, understanding kinematics is important in sports, such as analyzing the motion of a tennis player's serve or a runner's speed and acceleration during a race.

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