On the kinematics of three-link spatial cam mechanisms

Abstract

In this paper, using only the linear algebra, compact expressions for the description of the relative instantaneous screw motion of two rigid bodies observed from a fixed reference frame is derived. These expressions are then used for the study of the generation of contact surfaces of three-link spatial, spherical and planar cam mechanisms. The surfaces of the cam and the follower are generated by the sweeping action of the relative instantaneous screw axis between the two bodies.