Curvature Optimization of a Cam Mechanism With a Translating Flat-faced Follower

Abstract

The radius of curvature of a cam profile is an important factor that affects the working life of cam mechanisms. Based on flexible motion curves using parametric polynomials developed earlier, a method for maximizing the minimum radius of cam curvature using a nonlinear programming technique is presented. The relation between the radius of curvature of a cam and the kinematic features of the corresponding motion curves is discussed. Examples are presented to illustrate the method.

Minimization of the sliding velocity in planar cam mechanisms with flat-faced translating followers

“…Coulomb friction forces due to relative sliding motion are analysed in flexible mechanisms by Cardona and Géradin. 5 Yu and Lee 6 using flexible motion curves based on parametric polynomials, developed a method for maximizing the minimum radius of cam mechanism with a translating flat-faced follower. Lanni et al.…”