2006 Volume 49 Issue 3 Pages 920-929
South Pointing Chariot is one of the important mechanical inventions in ancient China. It achieves the purpose of fixing direction by applying mechanical devices. All existing designs can be classified into two types: “fixed-axis type” and “differential type”. In this study, firstly, the existing designs are analyzed and decomposed into four parts: two inputs, a transmission part, a passive feedback mechanism, and one output. Secondly, because some existing designs have the same topological structures, new representations are used to identify different axial directions of joints and characteristics of members. Thirdly, a design methodology is proposed to systematically synthesize all feasible design concepts of differential-type South Pointing Chariots. Finally, three examples are provided.
JSME international journal. Ser. 1, Solid mechanics, strength of materials
JSME international journal. Ser. A, Mechanics and material engineering
JSME international journal. Ser. 3, Vibration, control engineering, engineering for industry
JSME international journal. Ser. C, Dynamics, control, robotics, design and manufacturing
JSME International Journal Series A Solid Mechanics and Material Engineering
JSME International Journal Series B Fluids and Thermal Engineering