Optimization of cam mechanisms (Q1333022)

A cam mechanism consists of three basic components: cam, follower, and fixed frame. Cam optimization refers to determining the cam surface producing a given follower displacement program that minimizes some costs. The design of cam mechanism is presented as unified optimization process. An introduction (chapter 1) gives the necessary definitions and the classification of cams. In chapter 2 (The displacement program) conventional and spline methods to describe smooth enough functions of the angle representing the displacements of follower are considered. In chapter 3 local and global geometric properties of cam profiles are discussed. The optimal synthesis of planar cam mechanisms is considered in case of flat-face (chapter 4) and roller (chapter 5) followers taking into account maximum eccentricity, curvature, pressure angle and other constraints. The spatial (cylindric) cams with translating roller- follower are considered in chapter 6. The kinematic analysis of cam mechanisms and the description of the cam profile by cubic splines are outlined in chapters 7 and 8. In the last 9th chapter CAD/CAM techniques are introduced. The book may be useful for undergraduate and graduate courses in mechanical engineering.