Cam Motion Synthesis Using Spline Functions

Abstract

The application of spline functions to the general synthesis of cam motion programs is presented. The approach provides a single, systematic, easily automated method of accommodating discrete constraints on follower displacements, velocities, and accelerations, even when the set of constraints becomes large. Yet, it is as easily applied in simple cases as are the more traditional methods of syntheses. It also allows the designer to refine the motion program by locally influencing characteristics of the motion while still satisfying the discrete constraints. A series of examples is presented to illustrate application of the method and to compare it to the more traditional techniques.