Putting the “epi-“ on the word “cycle” refers to the rotation of something upon something else. Remember that spirograph you had as a kid? Those fun little doodles are often the result of making a round piece rotate upon or within some other shape. So, this is a rather nice word, epicycle. It has some subtle mathematical implications that I like and can make some rather complex and beautiful shapes – math and art in one.
One rather popular use of the word is as it is used to describe epicyclic gear trains or planetary gears. This happens to be a wonderful invention that defies many in its ability to compactly and efficiently produce a large mechanical advantage. The design transcends patents and is now both a highly used concept and a wonderful demonstration of kinematic mechanisms. So, part of the naming is based on this as well.
Finally, I can see an analogy between epicyclic rotations and my daily grind. What I mean is that I have a vocation that takes a huge chunk of my time. But, the research and teaching of engineering design is surrounded by my other passions (or rotations) namely music and other creative endeavors.
A search on epicycle brings up a little history too. The view that the earth was the center of the universe has been debunked by showing how nearly impossible it would be for heavenly bodies to move in an epicyclic fashion. Therefore the use of the term could also be used as a badge of believing more in the power of scientific discovery than blind faith. I’m not sure I wanna make a stand on this (at least just yet). It’s fascinating though to know that some very bright people (even from 2200 years ago) are not immune to going great lengths to justify or cover up what they want to believe in.

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