Simple Harmonic Motion example.

[akerkarprashant100]

Escalator - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Simple harmonic motion - Wikipedia

en.wikipedia.org

Can we classify escalator device as a Simple Harmonic motion example?

Thanks & Regards,
Prashant S Akerkar

 

[rjenkinsgb]

No.
"Simple harmonic motion" fits such as a pendulum or clock balance wheel.

Part of the definition is that the restoring force is proportional to displacement; so something centred by a spring or gravity.
And it must be able to freely move either side of the centre position, but pulled back.

No part of an escalator fits with that.

 

[akerkarprashant100]

Thanks.

Is it because the escalator motion is periodic but not oscillatory?

Can we classify it as a circular motion similar that of a ceiling fan?

Thanks & Regards,
Prashant S Akerkar

 

[crutschow]

If you just look at the motion of the part of the escalator you see moving, then it could be classified as linear motion.