Machine

Machine

A machine is a man-made device that uses power to apply forces and control movement to perform an intended action. Machines can be driven by animals and people, by natural forces such as wind and water, and by chemical, thermal, or electrical power, and include a system of mechanisms that shape the actuator input to achieve a specific application of output forces and movement. They can also include computers and sensors that monitor performance and plan movement, often called mechanical systems.

Etymology

The word machine comes from the Latin word machina, which in turn derives from the Greek mēkhanē (μηχανή), meaning a contrivance, a scheme, or a device that manipulates and controls.

History

The earliest known instances of the word machine being used to refer to a structure or apparatus comes from the 16th century. Archimedes is often credited with inventing the simple machine, but his actual contribution was the understanding of how such devices work.

Types of machines

Machines can be classified into several categories based on their complexity and function:

• Simple machines: These are devices that apply a single force to a single load and include the lever, the wheel and axle, the pulley, the inclined plane, the wedge and the screw.
• Compound machines: These are made up of two or more simple machines and include most modern machines, such as automobiles and washing machines.
• Complex machines: These are made up of many simple and compound machines and include factories, computers, and robots.

See also

• Mechanical system
• Mechanical engineering
• Mechanism (engineering)
• Mechanical advantage

References

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External links

• Official website

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