Screenshot from a Wikipedia article on the topic of impulse (physics).
After reading quite a bit on the subject, my answer to this question is yes.
However, there is one caveat
Engineering Mechanics describes processes theoretically based on physics; its language is mathematics, and its explanations are complex.
Those who engage with it will be rewarded with fascinating insights. However, you have to work hard to grasp it. Those who are interested will be willing to put in the effort.
For the practitioner who wants quick, simple answers to mechanical phenomena and problems, Engineering Mechanics offers, at best, headlines and general introductions to its topics. But I’ve found virtually nothing that I could use directly for my service/repair work.
Here, theory and practice are worlds apart
It’s the same in other fields of knowledge.
Since I am neither an engineer nor a physicist, but rather a practitioner interested in theory,
I try to bridge both worlds
For each topic, I create a brief summary for myself explaining what it’s about and where I can find these topics in my work on SLRs.
For example, it’s already an insight that different forces act within mechanical systems, influencing one another. Or that acceleration also plays a role when a gear train starts up. And that the shape of non-standardized mechanical parts—i.e., those specifically designed by the manufacturer—allows conclusions to be drawn about movements and points of force application.
This is all very vague to an expert, but for me as a practitioner, it broadens my horizons.
This approach should also make it possible
to effectively navigate the overwhelming abundance of theoretical knowledge one encounters when dealing with technical topics.
After all, it can be frustrating to realize that you know very little—if anything at all—about the subject. But that’s not the point. What matters is simply acquiring the knowledge that will help you with your specific task.
I’m continuing down this path and am curious to see where it will lead me.
