Dynamic Analysis of a Spatial Mechanism Including Frictionless Spherical Clearance Joint With Flexible Socket

Abstract

In this paper, the dynamic response of a spatial four-bar mechanism with a spherical clearance joint with flexible socket is investigated. Previous research treats the socket as a whole rigid part and neglects the flexibility of the socket. In order to better describe the influence of the spherical clearance joint, a rigid-flexible coupling model of a four-bar mechanism is established, in which the socket of the spherical clearance joint is treated as flexible body. The dynamic responses of this spatial mechanism are discussed for the mechanism with a flexible socket and the case with traditional rigid socket. Furthermore, the effects of clearance size and driving speed are also separately discussed. The results demonstrated that the dynamic response of mechanism is affected by the clearance joint. The socket flexibility can relieve the undesired effects of the clearance on the responses of the mechanism with clearance. The flexible socket acts as a suspension for the mechanism with clearance joint.