Mechatronics System for ME240 Course Objectives

Abstract

At the University of Michigan, ME240: Introduction to Dynamics and Vibrations is a core class for undergraduate mechanical engineering students. Topics such as particle kinetics, angular motion, and vibrations are introduced in this course and understanding them can be difficult, especially due to a lack of many physical models to demonstrate them. The course concepts are fundamental for later courses and in real-life applications. Researchers have studied the effects of experiential learning on students' learning and have proven that it is extremely beneficial in long-term learning. Experiential learning places an emphasis on experimentation and experience that students can use to help contextualize topics they have learned. Students can become more engaged in the classroom and connect theoretical behaviors and concepts to real-life applications. Professors currently have online simulations and simple models and have requested a model that incorporates sensors and encoders. We are tasked with creating a mechatronic system for use as a teaching aid and learning tool.