The Mechanisms Trainer offers a classroom based resource for practical investigation of a variety of fundamental mechanical systems. The trainer allows users to investigate gears, pulleys, levers, cams, belt drives, and inclined planes.

Typical practical activities include:

• Identify the different types of motion found in mechanical systems
• Demonstrate the effect of using an idler gear in a simple gear train
• Determine compound gear train ratios and speed
• Identify the purpose of belt drives
• Demonstrate the relationship between distance and effort for a pulley system
• Measure effort and movement for first, second, and third class levers