What is the solution for relative velocity of sliders?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around solving a problem involving the relative velocity of sliders using the instant center of rotation method. The user initially calculates velocities Va, Vb, Vc, and Vd, but arrives at an incorrect answer of 0.0536 m/s. A key issue identified is the sign convention used for the velocities, where Va was considered positive to the right and Vc to the left. This misunderstanding led to incorrect calculations, but clarification helped the user grasp the concept. The conversation highlights the importance of consistent sign conventions in velocity calculations.
Jonski
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Homework Statement


Screen Shot 2016-10-01 at 6.08.41 PM.png


Homework Equations

[/B]
Va = Va/c + Vc
Va = 0.2 + Vc
Vb = Vd

The Attempt at a Solution


I began by finding the instant centre of rotations of AB and CD. Both of these form a right angle triangle and the length of A -> ICab = 200mm and C -> ICcd = 300mm
Va/0.2 * 0.15 = Vb
Vc/0.3 * 0.125 = Vd
Va/0.2 * 0.15 = Vc/0.3 * 0.125
0.75*(0.2+Vc)=0.417(Vc)
Vc = -0.45
Vd = -0.1875m/s = Vb

The answer is 0.0536m/s, but I am not sure why taking the instant centre does not work. Did I mess anything up. Thanks in advance
 
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Jonski said:

The Attempt at a Solution


I began by finding the instant centre of rotations of AB and CD. Both of these form a right angle triangle and the length of A -> ICab = 200mm and C -> ICcd = 300mm
Va/0.2 * 0.15 = Vb
Vc/0.3 * 0.125 = Vd
Va/0.2 * 0.15 = Vc/0.3 * 0.125
0.75*(0.2+Vc)=0.417(Vc) ##~~~~##←
Vc = -0.45
Vd = -0.1875m/s = Vb

The answer is 0.0536m/s, but I am not sure why taking the instant centre does not work. Did I mess anything up. Thanks in advance
I believe that your problem lies at the line indicated above. It appears to me that you've taken velocity Va to be positive to the right and Vc to be positive to the left. Then your Va + Vc = 0.2 and so Va = 0.2 - Vc.
 
gneill said:
I believe that your problem lies at the line indicated above. It appears to me that you've taken velocity Va to be positive to the right and Vc to be positive to the left. Then your Va + Vc = 0.2 and so Va = 0.2 - Vc.
Oh, thanks. I understand now
 
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