Summary of "Mechanical" Article
The term "mechanical" has various meanings, primarily referring to aspects of machines and systems.
Machines and Systems: "Mechanical" is commonly associated with machines, which are systems of mechanisms that convert input forces and movements into desired outputs. These machines include mechanical calculators, which perform arithmetic operations, and mechanical systems, which manage power for specific tasks. Mechanisms are components of mechanical devices that execute specific functions.
Other Meanings: Beyond machines, "mechanical" also refers to non-electronic items, in contrast to their electronic counterparts. In typography, it describes a type of typeface. It can also denote characters or concepts, such as the character "Mechanical" in Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
Related Concepts: "Mechanical" is related to terms like "machine" (opposing electronic devices), "manufactured" (opposing natural or biological), and "engineering" (specifically mechanical engineering). Concepts like automation (machine-based decision-making) and mechanization (machine labor replacement) also fall under this umbrella. Additionally, "mechanical" can refer to licenses in the music industry or to mechanics in various scientific disciplines.
Interesting Facts: The VOX-ATypI classification includes a "Mechanical" typeface category, and Marilyn Manson's album "Mechanical Animals" features prominent mechanical imagery. "Mechanical" phenomena encompass digestive mechanics and the mechanics of swallowing, while HVAC systems in buildings involve complex mechanical engineering principles.