SEED Unit Design - Cam Mechanisms < >

This notation is based on that used in the mechanism design guides and software issued by the Engineering Sciences Data Unit (ESDU). Note the units needed for analytical rigour; in practice be prepared to find linear dimensions specified in mm and angles in degrees!

Sign Convention. The positive direction of the follower velocity and acceleration is away from the camshaft; positive angles are measured in the anti-clockwise sense. The derivation of the equations quoted in this Guide are given in ESDU Item" ME2 "Design of disc cams with various followers: derivation of kinematic equations." The principal dimensions needed to define the cam shown in Figures. 2b, 6 and 7 are:-

In addition the profile shape, shaft fastening, cam material and spring for force closure must be specified.