Analysis and Synthesis of Mechanical Error in Cam-Follower Systems

Abstract

A method of evaluating the mechanical error in the kinematic and dynamic response of cam-follower systems is presented based on probability principles. The error is analyzed for the three-sigma band of confidence level. A synthesis procedure, using nonlinear programming techniques, of distributing tolerances on geometrical and other system parameters is discussed. The objective of the synthesis problem is to minimize a measure of the manufacturing cost for specified maximum allowable error in the kinematic or dynamic response of the cam-follower system. The application of analysis and synthesis procedures is demonstrated with reference to a disc cam with translating roller follower.