CAM
The transformation of one of the simple motions, such as rotation, into any other motions is often conveniently accomplished by means of a cam mechanism A cam mechanism usually consists of two moving elements, the cam and the follower, mounted on a fixed frame. Cam devices are versatile, and almost any arbitrarily-specified motion can be obtained. In some instances, they offer the simplest and most compact way to transform motions.
A cam may be defined as a machine element having a curved outline or a curved groove, which, by its oscillation or rotation motion, gives a predetermined specified motion to another element called the follower. The cam has a very important function in the operation of many classes of machines, especially those of the automatic type, such as printing presses, shoe machinery, textile machinery, gear-cutting machines, and screw machines. In any class of machinery in which automatic control and accurate timing are paramount, the cam is an indispensable part of mechanism. The possible applications of cams are unlimited, and their shapes occur in great variety.
The transformation of one of the simple motions, such as rotation, into any other motions is often conveniently accomplished by means of a cam mechanism. It is a rotating or sliding piece in a mechanical linkage used especially in transforming rotary motion into linear motion or vice versa. A cam mechanism usually consists of two moving elements, the cam and the follower, mounted on a fixed frame. Cam devices are versatile, and almost any arbitrarily-specified motion can be obtained. In some instances, they offer the simplest and most compact way to transform motions. A common example is the camshaft of an automobile, which takes the rotary motion of the engine and translates it into the reciprocating motion necessary to operate the intake and exhaust valves of the cylinders.
A CAM has two parts,
► The FOLLOWER
► The CAM PROFILE.
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TYPES OF FOLLOWERS
There are different types of follower but they all slide or roll on the edge of the cam.
Follower Configuration
1. Knife-edge follower (Figure 2a)
2. Roller follower (Figure 2b, e, f)
3. Flat-faced follower (Figure 2c)
4. Oblique flat-faced follower
5. Spherical-faced follower (Figure 2d)
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