Ansys
Chapter 1: Four-Bar Mechanism
What you’ll learn
- Understand the fundamentals of Multi-Body Dynamics (MBD).
- Build and simulate multi-body systems using ANSYS.
- Perform analysis of mechanisms.
- Apply MBD concepts to automotive and industrial applications.
Course Content
- Introduction –> 5 lectures • 2hr 24min.
Requirements
Chapter 1: Four-Bar Mechanism
Description:
This chapter introduces the four-bar linkage, one of the most fundamental mechanisms in mechanical engineering. Learners will study the kinematic structure, degrees of freedom, Grashof condition, and motion characteristics of four-bar mechanisms. Using ANSYS MBD, students will model links, define revolute joints, apply motion drivers, and analyze displacement, velocity, acceleration, and joint reaction forces. The chapter also covers motion transmission, coupler curves, and dynamic load behavior under varying operating conditions.
Implementation in Other Applications:
Knowledge of four-bar mechanisms is widely applicable in:
- Automotive windshield wipers, suspension linkages, and door hinges
- Industrial presses, packaging machines, and conveyor systems
- Aerospace control linkages
- Consumer products such as folding mechanisms and adjustable furniture
- Robotics end-effectors and motion transmission systems
Understanding this mechanism builds a strong foundation for analyzing any planar linkage system.
Chapter 2: CAM and Follower Mechanism
Description:
This chapter focuses on cam-follower mechanisms, which convert rotary motion into prescribed follower motion. Learners will explore different cam profiles, follower types, motion laws (uniform velocity, SHM, cycloidal), and contact forces. In ANSYS MBD, students will create cam geometries, define contact interactions, simulate follower motion, and evaluate dynamic parameters such as contact forces, follower acceleration, and vibration tendencies.
Implementation in Other Applications:
Cam mechanism knowledge is essential in:
- IC engines (valve train mechanisms)
- Automated assembly lines and pick-and-place machines
- Textile and printing machinery
- Packaging and labeling equipment
- High-speed automation systems requiring precise motion control
This chapter helps learners design motion systems with accuracy and reliability.
Chapter 3: Serial Robot
Description:
This chapter introduces serial robotic manipulators, where links are connected end-to-end through joints. Learners will study forward and inverse kinematics, joint motion definition, and workspace analysis. Using ANSYS MBD, students will build serial robot models, assign revolute and prismatic joints, apply motion profiles, and analyze joint loads, link motions, and dynamic response during operation.
Implementation in Other Applications:
Serial robot modeling skills are applicable to:
- Industrial robots for welding, painting, and assembly
- CNC machine tool kinematics
- Medical and surgical robotic systems
- Aerospace assembly robots
- Automation systems and material handling equipment
This chapter enables learners to understand robot motion behavior beyond simple kinematic equations.
Lesson 4: Parallel Robot
Description:
This lesson covers parallel robotic mechanisms, where multiple kinematic chains connect the base to the moving platform. Learners will explore system stiffness, redundancy, and dynamic performance advantages over serial robots. In ANSYS MBD, students will model parallel link structures, define constraints, and analyze motion accuracy, load distribution, and dynamic stability.
Implementation in Other Applications:
Parallel robot knowledge is used in:
- High-precision machining centers
- Flight and driving simulators
- Pick-and-place delta robots
- Medical rehabilitation and motion platforms
- Precision positioning and vibration isolation systems
This chapter prepares learners for high-end robotic and precision engineering applications.
Lesson 5: Mechanical Model Assembly
Description:
This lesson focuses on complete mechanical system assembly in ANSYS MBD. Learners will integrate multiple components, define joint hierarchies, manage constraints, and simulate full-system behavior. Emphasis is placed on importing CAD data, simplifying geometry, setting contacts, and validating results for real-world applications.
Implementation in Other Applications:
Mechanical assembly modeling is critical for:
- Automotive subsystems (suspension, steering, seat mechanisms)
- Heavy machinery and construction equipment
- Aerospace mechanical assemblies
- Consumer product mechanism validation
- Digital prototyping and virtual testing
This lesson bridges the gap between academic mechanisms and industrial-scale simulation.
Overall Skill Transfer & Industry Relevance
The knowledge gained from these chapters enables learners to:
- Analyze motion, forces, and dynamic behavior of complex systems
- Support design optimization and failure prevention
- Reduce physical prototyping costs through simulation
- Apply MBD concepts across automotive, robotics, aerospace, manufacturing, and automation industries