Experiences of a "G" Acceleration Generator through Angular Velocities in a Dynamic Design Course

Abstract

This article shares the educational experiences obtained by using, as a didactic exercise, a "G" acceleration generator modeled in a CAD software tool application to help students understand the effects generated by angular velocities in different axes. This exercise was used in the course "Mechanical Design" for students of Mechanical Engineering in the fourth semester. This work aims to show the learning stages that the students developed through different exercises. Even though the activities used are not new, their combination and a computer simulation tool to verify the calculations makes the learning experience beneficial for the students. Initially, the paper presents a review of the developments in Human Training Centrifuge systems, also known as High-G Centrifuge Systems (HCSs). Subsequently, the reason why an application such as the "G" acceleration generator as a didactic exercise was selected among the topics of Engineering Mechanics: Dynamics is mentioned. Afterward, the performed activities are described, then the professor's observations during the exercises' application and the survey results to know the students' perception of the activities developed are presented. Finally, the conclusions and future work are stated.