Development of a Modular Didactic Laboratory Set for the Experimental Study of Friction

Abstract

The paper presents the results related to the development of a modular didactic laboratory set for the experimental study of friction and its implementation in engineering education. Successfully implemented in laboratory exercises and research, the modular set has been upgraded over time. A newly developed module is presented for investigating the kinetic coefficient of friction based on the differential equation of motion on an inclined plane. The authors deal with the most critical case-a free fall of a shell-shaped pin down the cylindrical guide when, theoretically, the friction force is equal to zero, while the air resistance force has a maximum value. Based on the time data recorded by inductive sensors, measurements were performed to determine the discrepancy between the theoretical and experimental acceleration values. After introducing the calculation model, the authors quantify very small energy losses and analyse the relationship between the unknown resistance force, caused primarily by the imperfections of the experiment, and the air resistance force.