How and Why Machines Work OpenCourseWare: MIT's Free Bachelor Level Machine Engineering Class

Published Jan 29, 2009

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Machines are tools that produce, alter or employ mechanical energy to perform a function. 'How and Why Machines Work,' an OpenCourseWare offered by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, investigates the science and technology behind a variety of machines. This course is recommended for undergraduate students, particularly those earning bachelor's degrees in Engineering or a related discipline.

How and Why Machines Work: Course Specifics

Degree Level Free Audio Video Downloads
Undergraduate Yes No No Yes

Lectures/Notes Study Materials Tests/Quizzes
Yes Yes No

How and Why Machines Work: Course Description

'How and Why Machines Work' is a free OpenCourseWare taught by Professors Martin Culpepper and Joseph Smith Jr. of the MIT Department of Mechanical Engineering. The course examines how machines work from several perspectives, including conceptualization, development and utilization. Students learn to visualize how a machine could be dismantled, as well as how to actually dismantle a machine to study its inner workings. They will also study the process of drawing the devices that they visualize. A series of lectures covers a wide spectrum of topics, including an introduction to mechanical engineering, machine manufacturing processes, engineering design concepts and machine modeling and estimation. The objectives of this course include developing in students the ability to think like mechanical engineers, cultivating students' understanding of mechanical engineering concepts and enhancing students' skills in communications, basic analysis and engineering design.

The materials for this OpenCourseWare include lecture and lab notes, assignment and animations. SolidWorks software is required to view some of the files. If you are interested in taking this course, visit the how and why machines work course page.

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