Design and Machining of Globoidal Index Cams

Abstract

A simple, yet useful approach to the geometry design and machining of globoidal index cams and roller-follower turrets is developed. From the machining point of view of the globoidal cam by an end mill, the side surface geometry can be easily defined as the swept surface by the tool path. By using the analytical cam surface formulation, the pressure angle, the contact forces, and the torques between the cam and the turret can be investigated. In the machining process, to avoid undercutting, principal curvatures are analyzed. To demonstrate the usefulness and effectiveness of the procedure, two numerical examples of the globoidal index cams are presented along with the 3D computer printouts and the photography of machined samples.