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.

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. More research and sources

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

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

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.

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.