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Any system depends on a number of components to make it work.
In the majority of cases, these components are electronic or mechanical.
In many systems, electronic components provide control over mechanical devices and they work in conjunction with each other to perform tasks, e.g. a production line.
Components can also link into a system via a computer. In this case, components are plugged into an interface unit so that the PC can interpret the signals and use them in a program.
PICs are programmable ICs which can accept information from a range of input sensors.
They are also able to process and store information in order to drive an output.
The ‘processing’ part is usually worked out using a computer with specialist software; the whole program is then ‘burnt’ onto the chip so that it becomes a stand-alone chip, specifically programmed to work for a particular task.
PIC chips can be used over and over again and will process both analogue and digital sensors.
Oscillating motion is a motion that is a cross between linear motion and reciprocating motion. It involves backwards and forwards motion, but in an arc rather than a straight line.
Pendulums and metronomes move in an oscillating motion.
Gears play a major role in mechanisms. They are discs with toothed edges, which rotate around a central axle. They come in a variety of sizes and are used to change the direction and speed of motion. However, the motion always remains rotary in nature.
A worm gear can change the rotary motion by 90 degrees, as well as affecting the speed.