A variable-speed method for improving motion characteristics of cam-follower systems

A cam is often assumed to be operated at a constant speed in designing a cam-follower system. The motion characteristics of the follower are determined once the cam displacement curve is designed. The traditional design method for improving the motion characteristics is to find a new displacement curve which has better motion characteristics. This paper, however, presents an alternative approach by varying the speed of the cam to reduce the peak values of the follower output motion characteristics. Constraints and design criteria for selecting suitable cam speed trajectories ape then developed. Finally, examples are given to illustrate the design procedure and also to show its feasibility.