A museum exhibit of moving mechanical models with online education.

The Mechanical Library shows the mechanisms that make our world work.

This project is an open-source exhibit and curriculum for middle and high school students to introduce mechanical engineering. The “Wall of Mechanisms” motorized physical models each have a QR code linking to online information, videos, and 3D models that explain how they work and how they are used.

We hope to support STEM education by sparking curiosity in how things work.

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

The Library - In Progress

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

Reduction Gears
Belts & Chains
Universal Joint
Right Angle Gears
Slotted Yokes
Ratchets, Pawls, & Stops
Geneva Movement
Differential gear

View in 3D

iPhone Augmented Reality Viewer

The Library - Future Elements


Ways to build a robotic hand

  1. Bar linkages
  2. Belt drive
  3. Linear actuators

  4. Pulleys & cables
  5. Motor & Gears
  6. Pistons
  7. Compliant mechanism
  8. Soft robotics

Potential Future Mechanisms

  1. Bar linkages
  2. Capstan Drive
  3. Weird Gears, missing teeth gears
  4. Gearless transmission “Elbow” & Spring elbow
  5. Rack & Pinion
  6. Ropes, Wires, & Pulleys
  7. Cam & Follower (external and in groove / Cams & Eccentric Drive 89, heart shape and wave wheel)
  8. Magnetic gears
  9. Friction & Mechanical clutch
  10. Cycloidal drive
  11. Constant Velocity Joint
  12. Continuously variable transmission
  13. Steam & Combustion Piston
  14. Crankshaft
  15. Fluids (hydraulics) & Air pressure (pneumatics)
  16. Springs linear and tortion
  17. Muscle wire nitinol

  18. One way bearing - roller clutch

  19. #27 Multiple Gear Drive
  20. #502 An epicyclic train

Mechanical Library Project Goals

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

    • About

    The Mechanical Library is being built by Steve Turbek. It is inspired by great engineering teachers and historical books like "507 Mechanical Movements" by Henry T. Brown and the Clark Collection of Mechanical Movement at the Boston Museum of Science.

    For more information, see research and sources page

    Sponsorship / Partnership

    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.

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