Abstract
The actual output kinematic characteristics of a cam-follower system will be different from the theoretical (desired) ones due to errors in manufacture and assembly. A method of evaluating the mechanical error in the kinematic response of cam-follower systems is presented using a stochastic approach. The tolerances on cam profiles and other geometrical parameters are treated as random variables that influence the mechanical error. The equations necessary for the mechanical error analysis of a planar cam-follower system (disc cam with translating roller follower) are derived. The equations for a spatial cam-follower system (globoidal cam with oscillating cylindrical follower) are also given at the end. An optimal synthesis procedure is outlined for the allocation of tolerances so as to minimize the manufacturing costs while satisfying a constraint on the maximum mechanical error in the kinematic response of cam-follower systems. The application of analysis and synthesis procedure is demonstrated with reference to a disc cam with translating roller follower.
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