Definition: Mechanical Power Transmission is defined as any and all mechanical methods of transferring power (portable or stationary) to the device actually performing the intended function.

Background: For thousands of years, power has been transmitted from the generating source by combinations of gears, shafts, levers, and belts. The development of engines in the 1800's and the diesel/electric traction motor locomotives in the 1930's and 1940's provides insight into how the future will be different. More recently hydraulic pump/motor sets were developed to transfer the power from the generating source to the location where power is needed; but, frequently, there has been the need for mechanical gear sets to make the actual coupling (speed reduction, direction, variable ratio, etc.). With the drive for further environmental and efficiency improvements and with the trend away from fossil fuels, alternate power and fuel sources will displace the traditional internal and external combustion engines and new requirements for mechanical power transmission will develop.

Goals: The goals of the committee are to develop a mechanical power transmission vision, identify the technology areas where short, intermediate, and long-term research will be needed; identify the stakeholders in each technology area; organize subcommittees charged with the task of developing technology roadmaps to achieve the vision, and support mechanical power transmission research in companies, universities, non-profit institutions, and governmental agencies.