Velocity, Acceleration, and Static-Force Analyses of Spatial Linkages

Abstract

The algebraic method using 4 × 4 matrices is extended to the analysis of velocities, accelerations, and static forces in one-degree-of-freedom, single-loop, spatial linkages consisting of revolute and prismatic pairs, either singly or in combination. The methods are well suited for machine calculations and have been tested on a number of examples, one of which is presented. Velocities and accelerations are obtained by differentiation of the matrix-loop or position equation. Static forces are found by combining the method of virtual work with the matrix-loop equation to relate the virtual displacement of the load to given virtual deformations of the links.