Towards a New Theory of Machines

First we discuss Lazare CarnotCarnotLazare’s theory of machines. Carnot realized that the ‘geometrical movements’ of the parts of a machine represent an independent important research area. Then we discuss Gaspard MongeMongeGaspard’s kinematical classification of machine elements. He defined a machine element as a mechanism that transforms motion. Finally we discuss CoriolisCoriolisGaspard Gustave de’ discovery of the CoriolisCoriolisGaspard Gustave de’ acceleration while he studied the applicability of the principle of living force to relative movement. The centrifugal and CoriolisCoriolisGaspard Gustave de accelerations can be seen as purely kinematical phenomena.