The Mechanical Library is an open-source exhibit and curriculum to introduce mechanical engineering to middle and high school student. The 6-foot-tall exhibit of moving mechanical models demonstrate important or interesting engineering inventions. Each mechanism has a web page that explains how the mechanisms are used in real life. It has photos, videos, 3D models, & lego models.

We hope to support STEM education by sparking curiosity in how things work. Learn more about the project

The exhibit is currently in development, follow @mechanical.library and @SteveTurbek on Instagram

The Library

Click a mechanism below to learn more, watch videos, see 3D models, make 3D prints, and build Lego models.

Reduction Gears
Universal Joint
Belts & Chains
Right Angle Gears
Geneva Movement
Rotational To Linear
Multiple Gear Drive
Hobson's Joint

View in 3D

iPhone Augmented Reality Viewer

Potential Phase 2 Elements


  1. Capstan Drive
  2. Square & Spiral Gears, Gears trains with missing teeth
  3. Ropes, Wires, & Pulleys
  4. Cam & Follower (external and in groove)
  5. Cams & Eccentric Drive, heart shape and wave wheel
  6. Friction & Mechanical clutch
  7. Cycloidal drive
  8. Constant Velocity Joint
  9. Continuously Variable Transmission
  10. Steam & Combustion Piston & Crankshaft
  11. Fluids (hydraulics) & Air pressure (pneumatics)
  12. Springs: linear and torsion
  13. One way bearing - roller clutch
  14. An epicyclic train
  15. 4 Bar linkages
  16. Reuleaux Triangle "positive return” cam 1,2

About Mechanical Library

The Mechanical Library is being built by Steve Turbek. Mechanical Library is a non-commercial labor of love, with support by NYCFirst, who provides meaningful and joyful STEM and robotics programming to NYC public school students.

The Mechanical Library is inspired by the 1920's "Mechanical Wonderland" museum exhibit by W.M. Clark, which was inspired by the book "507 Mechanical Movements" by Henry T. Brown. Here is our custom research into the history of the exhibits. More research and sources.

If you would like to become a partner or sponsor, please contact steve (at) turbek.com

Mechanical Library Project Goals

The Mechanical Library is inspired by great science and engineering teachers worldwide.

  1. Inspire the 'engineering mindset' in middle to high school students, especially those not excited by math and engineering.
  2. Make something interesting for kids and parents to introduce Mechanical Engineering using practical demonstrations.
  3. Communicate the opportunities for a career in the well-paid physical technical fields.
  4. Support teachers who cover these subjects.