Mechanical, Electrical, and Linear Systems Modules

To find out more about what the version numbers mean, click on any of the indicators.

v

Nearly all of the topics covered in an introductory statics (with linear algebra) course can in some way be related to aspects of an object generally well known by students: the bicycle. Everything from the shape of a bicycle frame, to the way that a rider's weight is distributed between the tires, to pedaling a bicycle and to load sharing by the frame members can foster the understanding of such topics as Newton's laws, vectors, forces, moments and equilibrium. This module takes advantage of the commonality of bicycle to demonstrate these links while improving understanding of the fundamental subject areas.

Authors: John Brunski, Joe Porter
Keywords: mechanics, linear algebra, statics, bicycle, bike, Newton's laws, vector, matrix, force, moment, equilibrium
Learning Level: college
Platform: Project Links base technical requirements
Applets:  Bicycle Pedal, Bicycle Frame Angle Analysis, Bicycle Frame Force Analysis, Bicycle Frame Length Analysis, Eyemount, Free Body Diagram , Mountain Biker Weight
[ Full Metadata ]

v
Authors: Krishna Rajan, Shannon Pixley
Keywords:
Learning Level: College
Platform: Project Links base technical requirements
Applets: Point Transformation Applet, Point Rotation Applet, Rectangle Transformation Applet Matrix Inverse Applet, Symbolic Matrix Multiplication, Matrix Multiplication
[ Full Metadata ]

v

The objective of this module is to introduce the geometry of matrices. Through a series of guided experiments, the user is encouraged to develop a more intuitive feel for what matrices represent in a variety of contexts, such as the deformation of shapes in the plane produced by multiplying vectors by matrices, or the geometric meanings of determinants, eigenvalues and eigenvectors.  Although some common analytic formulas are presented, the focus is on visual exploration of fundamental concepts.

Authors: Mark Levi, Isom Herron, Jill Richie
Keywords: linear algebra, matrices
Learning Level: college
Platform: Project Links base technical requirements
Applets: Two Degrees of Freedom Applet, Matrix Explorer Applet
[ Full Metadata ]

home

Copyright © 1998 Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. All Rights Reserved.

info@links.math.rpi.edu ... Last Updated: