Machine

A machine is a device that uses energy to perform some activity. In common usage, the meaning is that of a device having parts that perform or assist in performing any type of work. A simple machine is a device that transforms the direction or magnitude of a force.

The word "machine" is derived from the Latin word machina, which in turn derives from the Doric Greek μαχανά (machana), Ionic Greek μηχανή (mechane) "contrivance, machine, engine" and that from μῆχος (mechos), "means, expedient, remedy".

By

Usage

Historically, a device required moving parts to be classified as a machine; however, the advent of electronics technology has led to the development of devices without moving parts that many refer to as machines—the computer being the most obvious example.

"Engines" are machines that convert heat or other forms of energy into mechanical energy. For example, in an internal combustion engine the expansion of gases caused by the heat from an exothermic chemical reaction results in a force being applied to a movable component, such as a piston or turbine blade. An engine is often considered part of a larger machine, such as an automobile or an aircraft.

Machines are ubiquitous in a wide variety of industrial, commercial, residential and transportation applications. Those employing hydraulics are especially useful in manufacturing and construction.

Types and related components

Types of machines and related components

Classification Machine(s)

Simple machines Inclined plane, Wheel and axle, Lever, Pulley, Wedge, Screw

Mechanical components Axle, Bearings, Belts, Bucket, Fastener, Gear, Key, Link chains, Rack and pinion, Roller chains, Rope, Seals, Spring, Wheel

Clock Atomic clock, Chronometer, Pendulum clock, Quartz clock

Compressors and Pumps Archimedes' screw, Eductor-jet pump, Hydraulic ram, Pump, Tuyau, Vacuum pump

Heat engines External combustion engines Steam engine, Stirling engine

Internal combustion engines Reciprocating engine, Gas turbine

Heat pumps Absorption refrigerator, Thermoelectric refrigerator, Regenerative cooling

Linkages Pantograph, Cam, Peaucellier-Lipkin

Turbine Gas turbine, Jet engine, Steam turbine, Water turbine, Wind generator, Windmill

Aerofoil Sail, Wing, Rudder, Flap, Propeller

Electronics Vacuum tube, Transistor, Diode, Resistor, Capacitor, Inductor, Memristor

Miscellaneous Robot, Vending machine, Wind tunnel, Check weighing machines, Riveting machines

(source:wikipedia)