Wedge (mechanical device)

A wedge is a body in which two side surfaces converging at an acute angle.

Wedges are used as a tool for splitting and for power transmission, the mechanical principle of the inclined plane is used. The direction of the wedge tip and the " cutting edge" acting force is then broken down in addition to the forward power in a right angle to force acting part. This normal force will cause, depending on the angle of the wedge of the friction insistence or movement of the wedge forces acting on the loads.

The effect of cutting tools such as knife and ax and of fasteners such as nail and screw is based on the principle of the wedge.

The wedge of wood, stone or metal is one of the earliest inventions of mankind. The effectiveness of the wedge is limited by the resulting friction during its application as well as its strength. A wedge is not always made ​​of hard material to develop its effectiveness. When aquaplaning ( hydroplaning ) the wedge effect of the water can be significant when the car tire moving on the road at a certain rate.

In nature, the principle of the wedge found inter alia in special beaks of some birds - for example, in Specht, spoonbills or " iron wedge" ( Kingfisher ).