MANAV RACHNA UNIVERSITY, FARIDABAD.

Department of Mechanical Engineering

Branch
Sem./Year
Subject code
Subject Name

: MECHANICAL ENGINEERING
: IVth Sem. / IInd Year
: ME 204-F
: KINEMATICS OF MACHINE

Objective:
To study the mechanism, machine and the geometric aspect of motion.
TEXT BOOKS:
1) Rattan S.S., Theory of Machines, Tata McGraw-Hill Publishing Company Ltd.,
New Delhi, 1998.
2) Khurmi R.S. and Gupta J.K., Theory of Machines, Eurasia Publishing House,
New Delhi, 2006.
3) Shigley J.E. and Uicker J.J., Theory of Machines and Mechanisms, McGrawHill, Inc. 1995.
REFERENCES:
1) Thomas Bevan, Theory of Machines, CBS Publishers and Distributors, 1984.
2) Ghosh A. and Mallick A.K., Theory of Mechanisms and Machines, Affiliated
East-West Pvt. Ltd., New Delhi, 1988.
3) Rao J.S. and Dukkipati R.V., Mechanism and Machine Theory, Wiley-Eastern
Ltd., New Delhi, 1992.
NOTES OF LESSON
Unit I BASICS OF MECHANISMS

Introduction:
Definitions : Link or Element, Pairing of Elements with degrees of freedom,
Grublers criterion (without derivation), Kinematic chain, Mechanism,
Mobility of Mechanism, Inversions, Machine.

Kinematic Chains and Inversions :

Kinematic chain with three lower pairs, Four bar chain, Single slider crank
chain and Double slider crank chain and their inversions.

Mechanisms:
i) Quick return motion mechanisms Drag link mechanism, Whitworth
mechanism and Crank and slotted lever mechanism
ii) Straight line motion mechanisms Peaceliers mechanism and
Roberts mechanism.
iii) Intermittent motion mechanisms Geneva mechanism and Ratchet &
Pawl mechanism.
iv) Toggle mechanism, Pantograph, Hookes joint and Ackerman Steering
gear mechanism.

1. Terminology and Definitions-Degree of Freedom, Mobility

Kinematics: The study of motion (position, velocity, acceleration). A major
goal of understanding kinematics is to develop the ability to design a system
that will satisfy specified motion requirements. This will be the emphasis of
this class.
Kinetics: The effect of forces on moving bodies. Good kinematic design
should produce good kinetics.
Mechanism: A system design to transmit motion. (low forces)
Machine: A system designed to transmit motion and energy. (forces
involved)
Basic Mechanisms: Includes geared systems, cam-follower systems and
linkages (rigid links connected by sliding or rotating joints). A mechanism
has multiple moving parts (for example, a simple hinged door does not qualify
as a mechanism).
Examples of mechanisms: Tin snips, vise grips, car suspension, backhoe,
piston engine, folding chair, windshield wiper drive system, etc.
Key concepts:
Degrees of freedom: The number of inputs required to completely control a
system. Examples: A simple rotating link. A two link system. A four-bar
linkage. A five-bar linkage.
Types of motion: Mechanisms may produce motions that are pure rotation,
pure translation, or a combination of the two. We reduce the degrees of
freedom of a mechanism by restraining the ability of the mechanism to move
in translation (x-y directions for a 2D mechanism) or in rotation (about the zaxis for a 2-D mechanism).
Link: A rigid body with two or more nodes (joints) that are used to connect to
other rigid bodies. (WM examples: binary link, ternary link (3 joints),
quaternary link (4 joints))
Joint: A connection between two links that allows motion between the links.
The motion allowed may be rotational (revolute joint), translational (sliding or
prismatic joint), or a combination of the two (roll-slide joint).
Kinematic chain: An assembly of links and joints used to coordinate an
output motion with an input motion.
Link or element:

A mechanism is made of a number of resistant bodies out of which some may have
motions relative to the others. A resistant body or a group of resistant bodies with
rigid connections preventing their relative movement is known as a link.

A link may also be defined as a member or a combination of members of a

mechanism, connecting other members and having motion relative to them, thus a
link may consist of one or more resistant bodies. A link is also known as Kinematic
link or an element.
Links can be classified into 1) Binary, 2) Ternary, 3) Quarternary, etc.
Kinematic Pair:
A Kinematic Pair or simply a pair is a joint of two links having relative motion
between them.
Example:

In the above given Slider crank mechanism, link 2 rotates relative to link 1 and
constitutes a revolute or turning pair. Similarly, links 2, 3 and 3, 4 constitute turning
pairs. Link 4 (Slider) reciprocates relative to link 1 and its a sliding pair.
Types of Kinematic Pairs:
Kinematic pairs can be classified according to
i) Nature of contact.
ii) Nature of mechanical constraint.
iii) Nature of relative motion.
i) Kinematic pairs according to nature of contact :
a) Lower Pair: A pair of links having surface or area contact between the members is
known as a lower pair. The contact surfaces of the two links are similar.
Examples: Nut turning on a screw, shaft rotating in a bearing, all pairs of a slidercrank mechanism, universal joint.
b) Higher Pair: When a pair has a point or line contact between the links, it is known
as a higher pair. The contact surfaces of the two links are dissimilar.
Examples: Wheel rolling on a surface cam and follower pair, tooth gears, ball and
roller bearings, etc.
ii) Kinematic pairs according to nature of mechanical constraint.
a) Closed pair: When the elements of a pair are held together mechanically, it is
known as a closed pair. The contact between the two can only be broken only by the
destruction of at least one of the members. All the lower pairs and some of the higher
pairs are closed pairs.

b) Unclosed pair: When two links of a pair are in contact either due to force of gravity
or some spring action, they constitute an unclosed pair. In this the links are not held
together mechanically. Ex.: Cam and follower pair.
iii) Kinematic pairs according to nature of relative motion.
a) Sliding pair: If two links have a sliding motion relative to each other, they form a
sliding pair. A rectangular rod in a rectangular hole in a prism is an example of a
sliding pair.
b) Turning Pair: When on link has a turning or revolving motion relative to the other,
they constitute a turning pair or revolving pair.
c) Rolling pair: When the links of a pair have a rolling motion relative to each other,
they form a rolling pair. A rolling wheel on a flat surface, ball ad roller bearings, etc.
are some of the examples for a Rolling pair.
d) Screw pair (Helical Pair): if two mating links have a turning as well as sliding
motion between them, they form a screw pair. This is achieved by cutting matching
threads on the two links.
The lead screw and the nut of a lathe is a screw Pair
e) Spherical pair: When one link in the form of a sphere turns inside a fixed link, it is
a spherical pair. The ball and socket joint is a spherical pair.
Degrees of Freedom:
An unconstrained rigid body moving in space can describe the following independent
motions.
1. Translational Motions along any three mutually perpendicular axes x, y and z,
2. Rotational motions along these axes.
Thus a rigid body possesses six degrees of freedom. The connection of a link with
another imposes certain constraints on their relative motion. The number of restraints
can never be zero (joint is disconnected) or six (joint becomes solid).
Degrees of freedom of a pair is defined as the number of independent relative
motions, both translational and rotational, a pair can have.
Degrees of freedom = 6 no. of restraints.
To find the number of degrees of freedom for a plane mechanism we have an equation
known as Grublers equation and is given by F = 3 ( n 1 ) 2 j1 j2
F = Mobility or number of degrees of freedom
n = Number of links including frame.
j1 = Joints with single (one) degree of freedom.
J2 = Joints with two degrees of freedom.
If F > 0, results in a mechanism with F degrees of freedom.
F = 0, results in a statically determinate structure.
F < 0, results in a statically indeterminate structure.
Kinematic Chain:
A Kinematic chain is an assembly of links in which the relative motions of the links is
possible and the motion of each relative to the others is definite (fig. a, b, and c.)

In case, the motion of a link results in indefinite motions of other links, it is a nonkinematic chain. However, some authors prefer to call all chains having relative
motions of the links as kinematic chains.
Linkage, Mechanism and structure:
A linkage is obtained if one of the links of kinematic chain is fixed to the ground. If
motion of each link results in definite motion of the others, the linkage is known as
mechanism. If one of the links of a redundant chain is fixed, it is known as a structure.
To obtain constrained or definite motions of some of the links of a linkage, it is
necessary to know how many inputs are needed. In some mechanisms, only one input
is necessary that determines the motion of other links and are said to have one degree
of freedom. In other mechanisms, two inputs may be necessary to get a constrained
motion of the other links and are said to have two degrees of freedom and so on.
The degree of freedom of a structure is zero or less. A structure with negative degrees
of freedom is known as a Superstructure.

Motion and its types:

Completely
Constrained
Motion

Partially
Constrained
Motion

Incompletely
Constrained
Motion

The three main types of constrained motion in kinematic pair are,

1.Completely constrained motion : If the motion between a pair of links is limited to

a definite direction, then it is completely constrained motion. E.g.: Motion of a shaft
or rod with collars at each end in a hole as shown in fig.

2. Incompletely Constrained motion : If the motion between a pair of links is not

confined to a definite direction, then it is incompletely constrained motion. E.g.: A
spherical ball or circular shaft in a circular hole may either rotate or slide in the hole
as shown in fig.

3. Successfully constrained motion or Partially constrained motion: If the motion

in a definite direction is not brought about by itself but by some other means, then it is
known as successfully constrained motion. E.g.: Foot step Bearing.

Machine:
It is a combination of resistant bodies with successfully constrained motion which is
used to transmit or transform motion to do some useful work. E.g.: Lathe, Shaper,
Steam Engine, etc.
Kinematic chain with three lower pairs
It is impossible to have a kinematic chain consisting of three turning pairs only. But it
is possible to have a chain which consists of three sliding pairs or which consists of a
turning, sliding and a screw pair.
The figure shows a kinematic chain with three sliding pairs. It consists of a frame B,
wedge C and a sliding rod A. So the three sliding pairs are, one between the wedge C
and the frame B, second between wedge C and sliding rod A and the frame B.

This figure shows the mechanism of a fly press. The element B forms a sliding with A
and turning pair with screw rod C which in turn forms a screw pair with A. When link
A is fixed, the required fly press mechanism is obtained.

2. Kutzbach criterion, Grashoff's law

Kutzbach criterion:
Fundamental Equation for 2-D Mechanisms: M = 3(L 1) 2J1 J2
Can we intuitively derive Kutzbachs modification of Grublers equation?
Consider a rigid link constrained to move in a plane. How many degrees of
freedom does the link have? (3: translation in x and y directions, rotation
about z-axis)
If you pin one end of the link to the plane, how many degrees of freedom does
it now have?
Add a second link to the picture so that you have one link pinned to the plane
and one free to move in the plane. How many degrees of freedom exist
between the two links? (4 is the correct answer)
Pin the second link to the free end of the first link. How many degrees of
freedom do you now have?
How many degrees of freedom do you have each time you introduce a moving
link? How many degrees of freedom do you take away when you add a
simple joint? How many degrees of freedom would you take away by adding
a half joint? Do the different terms in equation make sense in light of this
knowledge?
Grashoff's law:
Grashoff 4-bar linkage: A linkage that contains one or more links capable
of undergoing a full rotation. A linkage is Grashoff if: S + L < P + Q (where:
S = shortest link length, L = longest, P, Q = intermediate length links). Both
joints of the shortest link are capable of 360 degrees of rotation in a Grashoff
linkages. This gives us 4 possible linkages: crank-rocker (input rotates 360),
rocker-crank-rocker (coupler rotates 360), rocker-crank (follower); double
crank (all links rotate 360). Note that these mechanisms are simply the
possible inversions (section 2.11, Figure 2-16) of a Grashoff mechanism.
Non Grashoff 4 bar: No link can rotate 360 if: S + L > P + Q
Lets examine why the Grashoff condition works:
Consider a linkage with the shortest and longest sides joined together.
Examine the linkage when the shortest side is parallel to the longest side (2
positions possible, folded over on the long side and extended away from the
long side). How long do P and Q have to be to allow the linkage to achieve
these positions?
Consider a linkage where the long and short sides are not joined. Can you
figure out the required lengths for P and Q in this type of mechanism
3. Kinematic Inversions of 4-bar chain and slider crank chains:
Types of Kinematic Chain: 1) Four bar chain 2) Single slider chain 3) Double
Slider chain
Four bar Chain:
The chain has four links and it looks like a cycle frame and hence it is also called
quadric cycle chain. It is shown in the figure. In this type of chain all four pairs will
be turning pairs.

 Inversions:
By fixing each link at a time we get as many mechanisms as the number of links, then
each mechanism is called Inversion of the original Kinematic Chain.
Inversions of four bar chain mechanism:
There are three inversions: 1) Beam Engine or Crank and lever mechanism. 2)
Coupling rod of locomotive or double crank mechanism. 3) Watts straight line
mechanism or double lever mechanism.
Beam Engine:
When the crank AB rotates about A, the link CE pivoted at D makes vertical
reciprocating motion at end E. This is used to convert rotary motion to reciprocating
motion and vice versa. It is also known as Crank and lever mechanism. This
mechanism is shown in the figure below.

2. Coupling rod of locomotive: In this mechanism the length of link AD =

length of link C. Also length of link AB = length of link CD. When AB rotates about
A, the crank DC rotates about D. this mechanism is used for coupling locomotive
wheels. Since links AB and CD work as cranks, this mechanism is also known as
double crank mechanism. This is shown in the figure below.

 3. Watts straight line mechanism or Double lever mechanism: In this

mechanism, the links AB & DE act as levers at the ends A & E of these levers are
fixed. The AB & DE are parallel in the mean position of the mechanism and coupling
rod BD is perpendicular to the levers AB & DE. On any small displacement of the
mechanism the tracing point C traces the shape of number 8, a portion of which
will be approximately straight. Hence this is also an example for the approximate
straight line mechanism. This mechanism is shown below.

2. Slider crank Chain:

It is a four bar chain having one sliding pair and three turning pairs. It is shown in the
figure below the purpose of this mechanism is to convert rotary motion to
reciprocating motion and vice versa.
Inversions of a Slider crank chain:
There are four inversions in a single slider chain mechanism. They are:
st

1) Reciprocating engine mechanism (1 inversion)

nd

2) Oscillating cylinder engine mechanism (2 inversion)

nd

3) Crank and slotted lever mechanism (2 inversion)

rd

4) Whitworth quick return motion mechanism (3 inversion)

rd

5) Rotary engine mechanism (3 inversion)

th

6) Bull engine mechanism (4 inversion)

th

7) Hand Pump (4 inversion)

1. Reciprocating engine mechanism :
In the first inversion, the link 1 i.e., the cylinder and the frame is kept fixed. The fig
below shows a reciprocating engine.

A slotted link 1 is fixed. When the crank 2 rotates about O, the sliding piston 4
reciprocates in the slotted link 1. This mechanism is used in steam engine, pumps,
compressors, I.C. engines, etc.
2. Crank and slotted lever mechanism:
It is an application of second inversion. The crank and slotted lever mechanism is
shown in figure below.

In this mechanism link 3 is fixed. The slider (link 1) reciprocates in oscillating slotted
lever (link 4) and crank (link 2) rotates. Link 5 connects link 4 to the ram (link 6). The
ram with the cutting tool reciprocates perpendicular to the fixed link 3. The ram with
the tool reverses its direction of motion when link 2 is perpendicular to link 4. Thus
the cutting stroke is executed during the rotation of the crank through angle and the
return stroke is executed when the crank rotates through angle or 360 .
Therefore, when the crank rotates uniformly, we get,
Time to cutting = =

Time of return 360

This mechanism is used in shaping machines, slotting machines and in rotary engines.

3. Whitworth quick return motion mechanism:

Third inversion is obtained by fixing the crank i.e. link 2. Whitworth quick return
mechanism is an application of third inversion. This mechanism is shown in the figure
below. The crank OC is fixed and OQ rotates about O. The slider slides in the slotted
link and generates a circle of radius CP. Link 5 connects the extension OQ provided
on the opposite side of the link 1 to the ram (link 6). The rotary motion of P is taken
to the ram R which reciprocates. The quick return motion mechanism is used in
shapers and slotting machines. The angle covered during cutting stroke from P1 to P2
in counter clockwise direction is or 360 -2. During the return stroke, the angle
covered is 2 or .

Therefore,

Time to cutting = 360 -2 = 180

Time of return 2 = = . 360

4. Rotary engine mechanism or Gnome Engine:

Rotary engine mechanism or gnome engine is another application of third inversion. It
is a rotary cylinder V type internal combustion engine used as an aero engine. But
now Gnome engine has been replaced by Gas turbines. The Gnome engine has
generally seven cylinders in one plane. The crank OA is fixed and all the connecting
rods from the pistons are connected to A. In this mechanism when the pistons
reciprocate in the cylinders, the whole assembly of cylinders, pistons and connecting
rods rotate about the axis O, where the entire mechanical power developed, is
obtained in the form of rotation of the crank shaft. This mechanism is shown in the
figure below.

Double Slider Crank Chain:

A four bar chain having two turning and two sliding pairs such that two pairs of the
same kind are adjacent is known as double slider crank chain.
Inversions of Double slider Crank chain:
It consists of two sliding pairs and two turning pairs. They are three important
inversions of double slider crank chain. 1) Elliptical trammel. 2) Scotch yoke
mechanism. 3) Oldhams Coupling.
1. Elliptical Trammel:
This is an instrument for drawing ellipses. Here the slotted link is fixed. The sliding
block P and Q in vertical and horizontal slots respectively. The end R generates an
ellipse with the displacement of sliders P and Q.

The co-ordinates of the point R are x and y. From the fig. cos = x. PR
and Sin = y. QR
Squaring and adding (i) and (ii) we get
x2 + y2 = cos2 + sin2
2

(PR)

(QR)

x2

+ y2 = 1
2

(PR) (QR)
The equation is that of an ellipse, Hence the instrument traces an ellipse. Path traced
2

by mid-point of PQ is a circle. In this case, PR = PQ and so x +y =1 (PR) (QR)

It is an equation of circle with PR = QR = radius of a circle.
2. Scotch yoke mechanism: This mechanism, the slider P is fixed. When PQ
rotates above P, the slider Q reciprocates in the vertical slot. The mechanism is used
to convert rotary to reciprocating mechanism.

3. Oldhams coupling: The third inversion of obtained by fixing the link

connecting the 2 blocks P & Q. If one block is turning through an angle, the frame
and the other block will also turn through the same angle. It is shown in the figure
below.

An application of the third inversion of the double slider crank mechanism is

Oldhams coupling shown in the figure. This coupling is used for connecting two
parallel shafts when the distance between the shafts is small. The two shafts to be
connected have flanges at their ends, secured by forging. Slots are cut in the flanges.
These flanges form 1 and 3. An intermediate disc having tongues at right angles and
opposite sides is fitted in between the flanges. The intermediate piece forms the link 4
which slides or reciprocates in flanges 1 & 3. The link two is fixed as shown. When
flange 1 turns, the intermediate disc 4 must turn through the same angle and whatever
angle 4 turns, the flange 3 must turn through the same angle. Hence 1, 4 & 3 must
have the same angular velocity at every instant. If the distance between the axis of the
shaft is x, it will be the diameter if the circle traced by the centre of the intermediate
piece. The maximum sliding speed of each tongue along its slot is given by
v=x where, = angular velocity of each shaft in rad/sec v = linear velocity in m/sec
4. Mechanical Advantage, Transmission angle:
The mechanical advantage (MA) is defined as the ratio of output torque to the
input torque. (or) ratio of load to output.

Transmission angle.
The extreme values of the transmission angle occur when the crank lies along
the line of frame.

5. Description of common mechanisms-Single, Double and offset slider

mechanisms - Quick return mechanisms:
Quick Return Motion Mechanisms:
Many a times mechanisms are designed to perform repetitive operations. During these
operations for a certain period the mechanisms will be under load known as working
stroke and the remaining period is known as the return stroke, the mechanism returns
to repeat the operation without load. The ratio of time of working stroke to that of the
return stroke is known a time ratio. Quick return mechanisms are used in machine
tools to give a slow cutting stroke and a quick return stroke. The various quick return
mechanisms commonly used are i) Whitworth ii) Drag link. iii) Crank and slotted
lever mechanism
1. Whitworth quick return mechanism:
Whitworth quick return mechanism is an application of third inversion of the single
slider crank chain. This mechanism is shown in the figure below. The crank OC is
fixed and OQ rotates about O. The slider slides in the slotted link and generates a
circle of radius CP. Link 5 connects the extension OQ provided on the opposite side
of the link 1 to the ram (link 6). The rotary motion of P is taken to the ram R which
reciprocates. The quick return motion mechanism is used in shapers and slotting
machines.

The angle covered during cutting stroke from P1 to P2 in counter clockwise direction
is or 360 -2. During the return stroke, the angle covered is 2 or .
2. Drag link mechanism :

This is four bar mechanism with double crank in which the shortest link is fixed. If
the crank AB rotates at a uniform speed, the crank CD rotate at a non-uniform speed.
This rotation of link CD is transformed to quick return reciprocatory motion of the
ram E by the link CE as shown in figure. When the crank AB rotates through an angle

 in Counter clockwise direction during working stroke, the link CD rotates through
180. We can observe that / >/ . Hence time of working stroke is / times more or
the return stroke is / times quicker. Shortest link is always stationary link. Sum of
the shortest and the longest links of the four links 1, 2, 3 and 4 are less than the sum of
the other two. It is the necessary condition for the drag link quick return mechanism.
3. Crank and slotted lever mechanism:
It is an application of second inversion. The crank and slotted lever mechanism is
shown in figure below.

In this mechanism link 3 is fixed. The slider (link 1) reciprocates in oscillating slotted
lever (link 4) and crank (link 2) rotates. Link 5 connects link 4 to the ram (link 6). The
ram with the cutting tool reciprocates perpendicular to the fixed link 3. The ram with
the tool reverses its direction of motion when link 2 is perpendicular to link 4. Thus
the cutting stroke is executed during the rotation of the crank through angle and the
return stroke is executed when the crank rotates through angle or 360 .
Therefore, when the crank rotates uniformly, we get,
Time to cutting = =

Time of return 360

This mechanism is used in shaping machines, slotting machines and in rotary engines.
6. Ratchets and escapements - Indexing Mechanisms - Rocking Mechanisms:
Intermittent motion mechanism:
1. Ratchet and Pawl mechanism: This mechanism is used in producing
intermittent rotary motion member. A ratchet and Pawl mechanism consists of a
ratchet wheel 2 and a pawl 3 as shown in the figure. When the lever 4 carrying pawl is
raised, the ratchet wheel rotates in the counter clock wise direction (driven by pawl).
As the pawl lever is lowered the pawl slides over the ratchet teeth. One more pawl 5 is
used to prevent the ratchet from reversing. Ratchets are used in feed mechanisms,
lifting jacks, clocks, watches and counting devices.

 2. Geneva mechanism: Geneva mechanism is an intermittent motion

mechanism. It consists of a driving wheel D carrying a pin P which engages in a slot
of follower F as shown in figure. During one quarter revolution of the driving plate,
the Pin and follower remain in contact and hence the follower is turned by one quarter
of a turn. During the remaining time of one revolution of the driver, the follower
remains in rest locked in position by the circular arc.

3. Pantograph: Pantograph is used to copy the curves in reduced or enlarged

scales. Hence this mechanism finds its use in copying devices such as engraving or
profiling machines.

This is a simple figure of a Pantograph. The links are pin jointed at A, B, C and D.
AB is parallel to DC and AD is parallel to BC. Link BA is extended to fixed pin O. Q
is a point on the link AD. If the motion of Q is to be enlarged then the link BC is
extended to P such that O, Q and P are in a straight line. Then it can be shown that the
points P and Q always move parallel and similar to each other over any path straight
or curved. Their motions will be proportional to their distance from the fixed point.
Let ABCD be the initial position. Suppose if point Q moves to Q1 , then all the links
and the joints will move to the new positions (such as A moves to A1 , B moves to
Q1, C moves to Q1 , D moves to D1 and P to P1 ) and the new configuration of the
mechanism is shown by dotted lines. The movement of Q (Q Q1) will be enlarged to
PP1 in a definite ratio.
4. Toggle Mechanism:

In slider crank mechanism as the crank approaches one of its dead centre position, the
slider approaches zero. The ratio of the crank movement to the slider movement
approaching infinity is proportional to the mechanical advantage. This is the principle
used in toggle mechanism. A toggle mechanism is used when large forces act through
a short distance is required. The figure below shows a toggle mechanism. Links CD
and CE are of same length. Resolving the forces at C vertically F Sin =P Cos 2
Therefore, F = P . (because Sin /Cos = Tan ) 2 tan Thus for the given value of
P, as the links CD and CE approaches collinear position (O), the force F rises
rapidly.
5. Hookes joint:

Hookes joint used to connect two parallel intersecting shafts as shown in figure. This
can also be used for shaft with angular misalignment where flexible coupling does not
serve the purpose. Hence Hookes joint is a means of connecting two rotating shafts
whose axes lie in the same plane and their directions making a small angle with each
other. It is commonly known as Universal joint. In Europe it is called as Cardan joint.
5. Ackermann steering gear mechanism:

This mechanism is made of only turning pairs and is made of only turning pairs wear
and tear of the parts is less and cheaper in manufacturing. The cross link KL connects
two short axles AC and BD of the front wheels through the short links AK and BL
which forms bell crank levers CAK and DBL respectively as shown in fig, the longer
links AB and KL are parallel and the shorter links AK and BL are inclined at an angle
. When the vehicles steer to the right as shown in the figure, the short link BL is
turned so as to increase , where as the link LK causes the other short link AK to turn
so as to reduce . The fundamental equation for correct steering is, CotCos = b / l
In the above arrangement it is clear that the angle through which AK turns is less
than the angle through which the BL turns and therefore the left front axle turns
through a smaller angle than the right front axle. For different angle of turn , the
corresponding value of and (Cot Cos ) are noted. This is done by actually
drawing the mechanism to a scale or by calculations. Therefore for different value of
the corresponding value of and are tabulated. Approximate value of b/l for correct
steering should be between 0.4 and 0.5. In an Ackermann steering gear mechanism,
the instantaneous centre I does not lie on the axis of the rear axle but on a line parallel
to the rear axle axis at an approximate distance of 0.3l above it.

Three correct steering positions will be:

1) When moving straight.
2) When moving one correct angle to the right
corresponding to the link ratio AK/AB and angle . 3) Similar position when moving
to the left. In all other positions pure rolling is not obtainable.
Some Of The Mechanisms Which Are Used In Day To Day Life.
BELL CRANK:

GENEVA STOP:

BELL CRANK: The bell crank was originally used in large house to operate the
servants bell, hence the name. The bell crank is used to convert the direction of
reciprocating movement. By varying the angle of the crank piece it can be used to
change the angle of movement from 1 degree to 180 degrees.
GENEVA STOP: The Geneva stop is named after the Geneva cross, a similar shape
to the main part of the mechanism. The Geneva stop is used to provide intermittent
motion, the orange wheel turns continuously, the dark blue pin then turns the blue
cross quarter of a turn for each revolution of the drive wheel. The crescent shaped cut
out in dark orange section lets the points of the cross past, then locks the wheel in
place when it is stationary. The Geneva stop mechanism is used commonly in film
cameras.
ELLIPTICAL TRAMMEL

PISTON ARRANGEMENT

ELLIPTICAL TRAMMEL: This fascinating mechanism converts rotary motion to

reciprocating motion in two axis. Notice that the handle traces out an ellipse rather
than a circle. A similar mechanism is used in ellipse drawing tools.
PISTON ARRANGEMENT: This mechanism is used to convert between rotary
motion and reciprocating motion, it works either way. Notice how the speed of the

piston changes. The piston starts from one end, and increases its speed. It reaches
maximum speed in the middle of its travel then gradually slows down until it reaches
the end of its travel.
RACK AND PINION

RATCHET

RACK AND PINION: The rack and pinion is used to convert between rotary and
linear motion. The rack is the flat, toothed part, the pinion is the gear. Rack and pinion
can convert from rotary to linear of from linear to rotary. The diameter of the gear
determines the speed that the rack moves as the pinion turns. Rack and pinions are
commonly used in the steering system of cars to convert the rotary motion of the
steering wheel to the side to side motion in the wheels. Rack and pinion gears give a
positive motion especially compared to the friction drive of a wheel in tarmac. In the
rack and pinion railway a central rack between the two rails engages with a pinion on
the engine allowing the train to be pulled up very steep slopes.
RATCHET: The ratchet can be used to move a toothed wheel one tooth at a time.
The part used to move the ratchet is known as the pawl. The ratchet can be used as a
way of gearing down motion. By its nature motion created by a ratchet is intermittent.
By using two pawls simultaneously this intermittent effect can be almost, but not
quite, removed. Ratchets are also used to ensure that motion only occurs in only one
direction, useful for winding gear which must not be allowed to drop. Ratchets are
also used in the freewheel mechanism of a bicycle.
WORM GEAR

WATCH ESCAPEMENT.

WORM GEAR: A worm is used to reduce speed. For each complete turn of the
worm shaft the gear shaft advances only one tooth of the gear. In this case, with a
twelve tooth gear, the speed is reduced by a factor of twelve. Also, the axis of rotation
is turned by 90 degrees. Unlike ordinary gears, the motion is not reversible, a worm
can drive a gear to reduce speed but a gear cannot drive a worm to increase it. As the
speed is reduced the power to the drive increases correspondingly. Worm gears are a
compact, efficient means of substantially decreasing speed and increasing power.
Ideal for use with small electric motors.

WATCH ESCAPEMENT: The watch escapement is the centre of the time piece. It
is the escapement which divides the time into equal segments. The balance wheel, the
gold wheel, oscillates backwards and forwards on a hairspring (not shown) as the
balance wheel moves the lever is moved allowing the escape wheel (green) to rotate
by one tooth. The power comes through the escape wheel which gives a small 'kick' to
the palettes (purple) at each tick.
GEARS

CAM FOLLOWER.

GEARS: Gears are used to change speed in rotational movement. In the example
above the blue gear has eleven teeth and the orange gear has twenty five. To turn the
orange gear one full turn the blue gear must turn 25/11 or 2.2727r turns. Notice that as
the blue gear turns clockwise the orange gear turns anti-clockwise. In the above
example the number of teeth on the orange gear is not divisible by the number of teeth
on the blue gear. This is deliberate. If the orange gear had thirty three teeth then every
three turns of the blue gear the same teeth would mesh together which could cause
excessive wear. By using none divisible numbers the same teeth mesh only every
seventeen turns of the blue gear.
CAMS: Cams are used to convert rotary motion into reciprocating motion. The
motion created can be simple and regular or complex and irregular. As the cam turns,
driven by the circular motion, the cam follower traces the surface of the cam
transmitting its motion to the required mechanism. Cam follower design is important
in the way the profile of the cam is followed. A fine pointed follower will more
accurately trace the outline of the cam. This more accurate movement is at the
expense of the strength of the cam follower.
STEAM ENGINE.

Steam engines were the backbone of the industrial revolution. In this common design
high pressure steam is pumped alternately into one side of the piston, then the other
forcing it back and forth. The reciprocating motion of the piston is converted to useful
rotary motion using a crank.

As the large wheel (the fly wheel) turns a small crank or cam is used to move the
small red control valve back and forth controlling where the steam flows. In this
animation the oval crank has been made transparent so that you can see how the
control valve crank is attached.
7. Straight line generators, Design of Crank-rocker Mechanisms:
Straight Line Motion Mechanisms:
The easiest way to generate a straight line motion is by using a sliding pair but in
precision machines sliding pairs are not preferred because of wear and tear. Hence in
such cases different methods are used to generate straight line motion mechanisms:
1. Exact straight line motion mechanism.
a. Peaucellier mechanism, b. Hart mechanism, c. Scott Russell mechanism
2. Approximate straight line motion mechanisms
a. Watt mechanism, b. Grasshoppers mechanism, c. Roberts mechanism,
d. Tchebicheffs mechanism
a. Peaucillier mechanism :
The pin Q is constrained to move long the circumference of a circle by means of the
link OQ. The link OQ and the fixed link are equal in length. The pins P and Q are on
opposite corners of a four bar chain which has all four links QC, CP, PB and BQ of
equal length to the fixed pin A. i.e., link AB = link AC. The product AQ x AP remain
constant as the link OQ rotates may be proved as follows: Join BC to bisect PQ at F;
then, from the right angled triangles AFB, BFP, we have AB=AF+FB and
BP=BF+FP. Subtracting, AB-BP= AF-FP=(AFFP)(AF+FP) = AQ x AP .
Since AB and BP are links of a constant length, the product AQ x AP is constant.
Therefore the point P traces out a straight path normal to AR.
b. Roberts mechanism:
This is also a four bar chain. The link PQ and RS are of equal length and the tracing
pint O is rigidly attached to the link QR on a line which bisects QR at right angles.
The best position for O may be found by making use of the instantaneous centre of
QR. The path of O is clearly approximately horizontal in the Roberts mechanism.

a. Peaucillier mechanism

b. Hart mechanism

Unit II KINEMATICS

Velocity and Acceleration analysis of mechanisms (Graphical Methods):

Velocity and acceleration analysis by vector polygons: Relative velocity and

accelerations of particles in a common link, relative velocity and accelerations of
coincident particles on separate link, Coriolis component of acceleration.
Velocity and acceleration analysis by complex numbers: Analysis of single slider
crank mechanism and four bar mechanism by loop closure equations and complex
numbers.
8. Displacement, velocity and acceleration analysis in simple mechanisms:
Important Concepts in Velocity Analysis
1. The absolute velocity of any point on a mechanism is the velocity of that point
with reference to ground.
2. Relative velocity describes how one point on a mechanism moves relative to
another point on the mechanism.
3. The velocity of a point on a moving link relative to the pivot of the link is given
by the equation: V = r, where = angular velocity of the link and r = distance
from pivot.
Acceleration Components
Normal Acceleration: An = 2r. Points toward the center of rotation
Tangential Acceleration: At = r. In a direction perpendicular to the link
Coriolis Acceleration: Ac = 2(dr/dt). In a direction perpendicular to the link
Sliding Acceleration: As = d2r/dt2. In the direction of sliding.
A rotating link will produce normal and tangential acceleration components at any
point a distance, r, from the rotational pivot of the link. The total acceleration of
that point is the vector sum of the components.
A slider attached to ground experiences only sliding acceleration.
A slider attached to a rotating link (such that the slider is moving in or out along
the link as the link rotates) experiences all 4 components of acceleration. Perhaps
the most confusing of these is the coriolis acceleration, though the concept of
coriolis acceleration is fairly simple. Imagine yourself standing at the center of a
merry-go-round as it spins at a constant speed (). You begin to walk toward the
outer edge of the merry-go-round at a constant speed (dr/dt). Even though you are
walking at a constant speed and the merry-go-round is spinning at a constant
speed, your total velocity is increasing because you are moving away from the
center of rotation (i.e. the edge of the merry-go-round is moving faster than the
center). This is the coriolis acceleration. In what direction did your speed
increase? This is the direction of the coriolis acceleration.
The total acceleration of a point is the vector sum of all applicable acceleration
components:
A = An + At + Ac + As
These vectors and the above equation can be broken into x and y components by
applying sines and cosines to the vector diagrams to determine the x and y
components of each vector. In this way, the x and y components of the total
acceleration can be found.

9. Graphical Method, Velocity and Acceleration polygons :

Graphical velocity analysis:
It is a very short step (using basic trigonometry with sines and cosines) to convert the
graphical results into numerical results. The basic steps are these:
1. Set up a velocity reference plane with a point of zero velocity designated.
2. Use the equation, V = r, to calculate any known linkage velocities.
3. Plot your known linkage velocities on the velocity plot. A linkage that is
rotating about ground gives an absolute velocity. This is a vector that originates at
the zero velocity point and runs perpendicular to the link to show the direction of
motion. The vector, VA, gives the velocity of point A.
4. Plot all other velocity vector directions. A point on a grounded link (such as
point B) will produce an absolute velocity vector passing through the zero velocity
point and perpendicular to the link. A point on a floating link (such as B relative
to point A) will produce a relative velocity vector. This vector will be
perpendicular to the link AB and pass through the reference point (A) on the
velocity diagram.
5. One should be able to form a closed triangle (for a 4-bar) that shows the vector
equation: VB = VA + VB/A where VB = absolute velocity of point B, VA = absolute
velocity of point A, and VB/A is the velocity of point B relative to point A.
10. Velocity Analysis of Four Bar Mechanisms:
Problems solving in Four Bar Mechanisms and additional links.
11. Velocity Analysis of Slider Crank Mechanisms:
Problems solving in Slider Crank Mechanisms and additional links.
12. Acceleration Analysis of Four Bar Mechanisms:
Problems solving in Four Bar Mechanisms and additional links.
13. Acceleration Analysis of Slider Crank Mechanisms:
Problems solving in Slider Crank Mechanisms and additional links.
14. Kinematic analysis by Complex Algebra methods:
Analysis of single slider crank mechanism and four bar mechanism by loop
closure equations and complex numbers.
15. Vector Approach:
Relative velocity and accelerations of particles in a common link, relative
velocity and accelerations of coincident particles on separate link
16. Computer applications in the kinematic analysis of simple mechanisms:
Computer programming for simple mechanisms
17. Coincident points, Coriolis Acceleration:
Coriolis Acceleration: Ac = 2(dr/dt). In a direction perpendicular to the
link.
A slider attached to ground experiences only sliding acceleration.
A slider attached to a rotating link (such that the slider is moving in or out along
the link as the link rotates) experiences all 4 components of acceleration. Perhaps
the most confusing of these is the coriolis acceleration, though the concept of

coriolis acceleration is fairly simple. Imagine yourself standing at the center of a

merry-go-round as it spins at a constant speed (). You begin to walk toward the
outer edge of the merry-go-round at a constant speed (dr/dt). Even though you are
walking at a constant speed and the merry-go-round is spinning at a constant
speed, your total velocity is increasing because you are moving away from the
center of rotation (i.e. the edge of the merry-go-round is moving faster than the
center). This is the coriolis acceleration. In what direction did your speed
increase? This is the direction of the coriolis acceleration.
Example:1

Unit III KINEMATICS OF CAM

Cams:
Type of cams, Type of followers, Displacement, Velocity and acceleration time
curves for cam profiles, Disc cam with reciprocating follower having knife edge,
roller follower, Follower motions including SHM, Uniform velocity, Uniform
acceleration and retardation and Cycloidal motion.

Cams are used to convert rotary motion into reciprocating motion. The motion created
can be simple and regular or complex and irregular. As the cam turns, driven by the
circular motion, the cam follower traces the surface of the cam transmitting its motion
to the required mechanism. Cam follower design is important in the way the profile of
the cam is followed. A fine pointed follower will more accurately trace the outline of
the cam. This more accurate movement is at the expense of the strength of the cam
follower.
18. Classifications - Displacement diagrams
Cam Terminology:
Physical components: Cam, follower, spring
Types of cam systems: Oscilllating (rotating), translating
Types of joint closure: Force closed, form closed
Types of followers: Flat-faced, roller, mushroom
Types of cams: radial, axial, plate (a special class of radial cams).
Types of motion constraints: Critical extreme position the positions of the
follower that are of primary concern are the extreme positions, with considerable
freedom as to design the cam to move the follower between these positions. This is
the motion constraint type that we will focus upon. Critical path motion The path
by which the follower satisfies a given motion is of interest in addition to the extreme
positions. This is a more difficult (and less common) design problem.
Types of motion: rise, fall, dwell
Geometric and Kinematic parameters: follower displacement, velocity,
acceleration, and jerk; base circle; prime circle; follower radius; eccentricity; pressure
angle; radius of curvature.
19. Parabolic, Simple harmonic and Cycloidal motions:
Describing the motion: A cam is designed by considering the desired motion
of the follower. This motion is specified through the use of SVAJ diagrams
(diagrams that describe the desired displacement-velocity-acceleration and
jerk of the follower motion)
20. Layout of plate cam profiles:

Drawing the displacement diagrams for the different kinds of the motions and
the plate cam profiles for these different motions and different followers.
SHM, Uniform velocity, Uniform acceleration and retardation and Cycloidal
motions
Knife-edge, Roller, Flat-faced and Mushroom followers.

21. Derivatives of Follower motion:

Velocity and acceleration of the followers for various types of motions.
Calculation of Velocity and acceleration of the followers for various types of
motions.
22. High speed cams:
High speed cams
23. Circular arc and Tangent cams:
Circular arc
Tangent cam
24. Standard cam motion:
Simple Harmonic Motion
Uniform velocity motion
Uniform acceleration and retardation motion
Cycloidal motion
25. Pressure angle and undercutting:
Pressure angle
Undercutting

Unit IV GEARS
Gears are used to change speed in rotational movement.

In the example above the blue gear has eleven teeth and the orange gear has twenty
five. To turn the orange gear one full turn the blue gear must turn 25/11 or 2.2727r
turns. Notice that as the blue gear turns clockwise the orange gear turns anticlockwise. In the above example the number of teeth on the orange gear is not
divisible by the number of teeth on the blue gear. This is deliberate. If the orange gear
had thirty three teeth then every three turns of the blue gear the same teeth would
mesh together which could cause excessive wear. By using none divisible numbers
the same teeth mesh only every seventeen turns of the blue gear.

26. Spur gear Terminology and definitions:

Spur Gears:
External
Internal
Definitions
27. Fundamental Law of toothed gearing and Involute gearing:
Law of gearing
Involutometry and Characteristics of involute action
Path of Contact and Arc of Contact
Contact Ratio
Comparison of involute and cycloidal teeth
28. Inter changeable gears, gear tooth action, Terminology:
Inter changeable gears
Gear tooth action
Terminology
29. Interference and undercutting:
Interference in involute gears
Methods of avoiding interference
Back lash
30. Non standard gear teeth: Helical, Bevel, Worm, Rack and Pinion gears
(Basics only)
Helical
Bevel
Worm

Rack and Pinion gears

RACK AND PINION

WORM GEAR

RACK AND PINION: The rack and pinion is used to convert between rotary and
linear motion. The rack is the flat, toothed part, the pinion is the gear. Rack and pinion
can convert from rotary to linear of from linear to rotary. The diameter of the gear
determines the speed that the rack moves as the pinion turns. Rack and pinions are
commonly used in the steering system of cars to convert the rotary motion of the
steering wheel to the side to side motion in the wheels. Rack and pinion gears give a
positive motion especially compared to the friction drive of a wheel in tarmac. In the
rack and pinion railway a central rack between the two rails engages with a pinion on
the engine allowing the train to be pulled up very steep slopes.
WORM GEAR: A worm is used to reduce speed. For each complete turn of the
worm shaft the gear shaft advances only one tooth of the gear. In this case, with a
twelve tooth gear, the speed is reduced by a factor of twelve. Also, the axis of rotation
is turned by 90 degrees. Unlike ordinary gears, the motion is not reversible, a worm
can drive a gear to reduce speed but a gear cannot drive a worm to increase it. As the
speed is reduced the power to the drive increases correspondingly. Worm gears are a
compact, efficient means of substantially decreasing speed and increasing power.
Ideal for use with small electric motors.

31. Gear trains:

Gear Train Basics
The velocity ratio, mV, of a gear train relates the output velocity to the input
velocity.
For example, a gear train ratio of 5:1 means that the output gear velocity is 5
times the input gear velocity.
32. Parallel axis gear trains:
Simple Gear Trains A simple gear train is a collection of meshing gears
where each gear is on its own axis. The train ratio for a simple gear train is
the ratio of the number of teeth on the input gear to the number of teeth on the
output gear. A simple gear train will typically have 2 or 3 gears and a gear
ratio of 10:1 or less. If the train has 3 gears, the intermediate gear has no
numerical effect on the train ratio except to change the direction of the output
gear.
Compound Gear Trains A compound gear train is a train where at least one
shaft carries more than one gear. The train ratio is given by the ratio mV =
(product of number of teeth on driver gears)/(product of number of teeth on

driven gears). A common approach to the design of compound gear trains is to

first determine the number of gear reduction steps needed (each step is
typically smaller than 10:1 for size purposes). Once this is done, determine
the desired ratio for each step, select a pinion size, and then calculate the gear
size.
Reverted Gear Trains A reverted gear train is a special case of a compound
gear train. A reverted gear train has the input and output shafts in line with
one another. Assuming no idler gears are used, a reverted gear train can be
realized only if the number of teeth on the input side of the train adds up to the
same as the number of teeth on the output side of the train.

33. Epicyclic gear trains:

If the axis of the shafts over which the gears are mounted are moving relative
to a fixed axis , the gear train is called the epicyclic gear train.
Problems in epicyclic gear trains.
34. Differentials:
Used in the rear axle of an automobile.
To enable the rear wheels to revolve at different speeds when negotiating a
curve.
To enable the rear wheels to revolve at the same speeds when going straight.
Problem: