Synthesis of Planar Linkages That Contain Guiding Tracks

Abstract

In this paper synthesis procedures are developed for planar cam-link mechanisms for exact generation of arbitrary specified motion and arbitrary specified path with coordinated crank rotation specifications. Complex-number loop-closure method is used for determining the position of links and tracks. Equations of the tracks are derived in general and parametric form. Then the envelope theory is used for determining the follower contact points on the tracks. A numerical example, Table 1, is also presented for illustration.