Construction and testing of a reciprocating electric machine for demonstration lessons and experiments in college Physics

The construction and testing of a reciprocating electric machine (Recipromach) is the main concern of this study. This will be used in conducting experiments and demonstration lessons related to electricity especially in a college physics class of engineering students. The apparatus was designed and constructed to possess the following characteristics:1. Versatile2. Replicable3. Durable4. Presentable5. Rare6. Interesting7. Safe8. Portable9. Reliable10. Inexpensive The methodology adopted was to construct a trial model based on a minimum of planning, test and modify it according to the observations and data from the tests, and eventually arrive at the final functioning model. This apparatus may be a modest addition to a number of improvised instructional aids already constructed by some educators who are committed to science education. This is evidenced by the successful results of the trial demonstrations and experiments and the satisfactory performance of the finished machine. The force needed to activate the moving parts of the machine is supplied by a solenoid which is energized by an AC source of electricity. The make-or-break switch, flywheel and crank assembly, connecting rod, and piston are so coordinated to produce linear reciprocating and rotating motion. Part of the energy needed by the flywheel to complete one revolution is provided by its inertia. For this reason this machine may be also aptly called an inertia machine. A study can be conducted to measure the effect of this apparatus to student learning. Also, a machine of different version by which operates under the same principle can be designed such as one that utilizes a DC source and which makes use of the mechanical output