The most important difference between a machine and a structure is that machines convert energy into productive work, whereas structures do not. Let us check out the difference between machine and structure in this article.
What is Machine?
A machine is a combination of mechanisms that transmits and modifies the available mechanical energy into some useful work.
Examples of machines: Bridges, Buildings, Machine frames, Roof truss.
What is Structure?
A structure is made up of a collection of rigid bodies that do not move relative to one another.
Example of structures: Shaper, Lathe, Screw jack, Slotter.
Difference between machine and structure:
- The parts of the machine move relative to one another, whereas members of the structure are built to bear the load, mainly compressive load.
- The machine serves to modify and transmit mechanical work, whereas the structure serves to modify and transmit forces.
- A link of a machine may transmit both power and motion, whereas the members of a structure can only transmit forces.