Cam Follower Mechanism Optimization

This project focuses on optimizing a cam follower mechanism to achieve a desired translational motion (upward and downward) with precise speed and direction control. The student will explore how cam profile design influences the follower's performance, considering factors like acceleration and trajectory adherence. References are provided for further research in cam mechanism design and robotic applications.

PROJECT TOPIC: OPTIMIZATION OF CAM FOLLOWER MECHANISM LINKAGE
TO DRIVE WITH GIVEN TRAJECTORY
INTRODUCTION
The cam profile mechanism is selected for the final project. It significantly encompasses
fundamental Mechanical Engineering concepts. Notably, it can widely be used in different
applications which require attainment of specific output motion different from the source
powering which is often reciprocating. In the given case for the project, a particular translational
motion in the upward and downward fashion is to be achieved from the cam follower as
illustrated (Shalaa & Likaja, 2013). Industrially, such mechanisms are useful especially in
ensuring effective mechanical control of load-bearing robots; For instance, if we want to achieve
movement of the arm in a particular direction, the given mechanism can be adopted in such a
way that the robots arm moves accordingly under relatively simple configurations (Ya’an et al,
1999).). Admittedly, therefore, the focus of this project will be on how the cam profile can, in an
optimum fashion, be configured to drive the linkage within the required trajectory. The
illustration for this mechanism is given in figure 1.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
But what is so special about this optimized mechanism? Firstly, two control parameters are often
critical for effective and economic performance of the cam follower; namely: the speed and
direction of the follower (Yildiz & Demir, 2017). In this project, therefore, the given cam profile
traces the project requirements as far as speed control is concerned. Further technical details can
be derived to show the performance of the follower in terms of actual speed output. Moreover,
timely acceleration during actualization of motion is required. This is also achieved with the
configuration of the cam mechanism (Mali1, Maskar , Gawande & Bagi, 2012). As mentioned
earlier, the required direction follows the given trajectory which will be in both upward and
downward direction.
Therefore, at the conclusion of this project, certainly the common motion mechanism in
mechanical engineering shall have been gained tremendously. This project offers an impetus for
further work in kinematic design of robots. The complex robot’s drive configuration originates
from the simple mechanisms of the cam follower (Sahu, Kedia & Sahu, 2016).
Admittedly, the motivation for this project is based on how the two critical performance
parameters are effectively controlled by optimizing the given mechanism (Goris, 2004& Shao,
Xiang, Liu & Lili, 2016). It greatly offers an opportunity to interrogate the given design
mechanism so that further robot kinematic design can be actualized.
CONCLUSION
Although the project will partly comprise the derivation and determination of the arm
acceleration, it is not clear in the project how that can be achieved as the focus is just on speed
and direction (Demeulenaere, & Schutter, 2002)). Therefore, for further work, fundamental
proposal on the design to accommodate effective acceleration control given the input power and
motion is recommended. Besides, significant work on the testing methodologies need to be

emphasized. Lastly, stability of the system will have to be tested to ensure that it conforms with
all the standards.
REFERENCES
Mali1, M.R., Maskar ,P.D., Gawande,S.H & Bagi, J.S. (2012).Design Optimization of Cam &
Follower Mechanism of an Internal Combustion Engine for Improving the Engine Efficiency.
Available from: https://file.scirp.org/pdf/MME20120300006_92300689.pdf
Shalaa, A & Likaja,R. (2013).Analytical Method for Synthesis of Cam Mechanism. Available
from: http://inpressco.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/Paper38432-435.pdf
Goris, K. (2004). Autonomous Mobile Robot Mechanical Design. Available from:
http://mech.vub.ac.be/multibody/final_works/ThesisKristofGoris.pdf
Sahu, L.K , Kedia,V.K & Sahu, M. (2016). Design of Cam and Follower system using Basic and
Synthetic curves: A Review. Available from: http://ijiset.com/vol3/v3s2/IJISET_V3_I2_51.pdf
Yildiz, O & Demir, C. (2017. Main Parameters of Cam Profile and Effects on Behavior of the
Cam Performance. Available from:
http://www.makalesistemi.com/panel/files/manuscript_files_publish/
aa0cfcd5888ff2211e8791d25e8cffef/d274f0cb5e2d4b7f8963e7535d45e7aa/
37506f903036f02.pdf
Ya’an, Y et al. (1999). Integrated Design of Cam Mechanism and Servo-control. Available from;
http://www.scichina.com:8082/sciEe/fileup/PDF/00ye0511.pdf
Shao, Y., Xiang,Z., Liu & Lili, H. (2016). Conceptual design and dimensional synthesis of cam-
linkage mechanisms for gait rehabilitation. Available from:
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Yixin_Shao/publication/303779317_Conceptual_design_an
d_dimensional_synthesis_of_cam-linkage_mechanisms_for_gait_rehabilitation/links/
5778a92708ae1b18a7e444b5/Conceptual-design-and-dimensional-synthesis-of-cam-linkage-
mechanisms-for-gait-rehabilitation.pdf
Demeulenaere, & Schutter, D. (2002). Accurate Realization of Follower Motions in High-Speed
Cam-Follower Mechanisms. Available from:
https://www.isma-isaac.be/publications/PMA_MOD_publications/ISMA2002/1107_1116.pdf