General Design Information > Cam-Mechanism Design > Design Checks with the Cam-Data FB

CONFIGURING THE 'POWER SOURCE'

Why do we need to Configure the Power-Flow?

A simple cam-mechanism typically has two kinematic-chains, each with a Motion-Dimension FB :

•a kinematic-chain, and Motion-Dimension FB, that moves the Cam

•a kinematic-chain and Motion-Dimension FB, that moves the Follower

Important:

•Each Motion-Dimension FB controls the motion of a Part at a Pin-Joint or a Slide-Joint.

•Each Motion-Dimension FB also needs a Power-Source to drive the Part at the Joint.

•The default Power-Source for the Part at the Joint is a motor.

However, in a simple cam-mechanism, the Power-Source for the Follower is the Cam, and NOT a motor.

We must move the Power-Source for the Follower to the Cam.

ONE motor drives both the Cam and the Follower kinematic-chains.

General case of Configure Power Source for Cam-Analysis

STEP 1: Set the machine speed

Use Edit menu (or toolbar) > Edit Machine Settings

STEP 2: Add the Masses and inertia to each Part.

See CAD-Line dialog | Mass-Properties tab

See CAD-Line dialog | SOLIDWORKS tab

See Extrusion dialog

STEP 3: If required, add a Conjugate Cam-FB

Conjugate-Cam Geometric-Analysis: Cam-Size

If the cam-mechanism uses a Conjugate Cam, you must add a Conjugate-Cam FB and select two or more 2D-Cams.

The Conjugate-Cam FB becomes the Power Source.

Groove-Cam

A Groove-Cam is also a Conjugate-Cam. You must model two 2D-Cams,: one cam for the Inner Flank and other for the Outer Flank. You must select the two 2D-Cams in the Conjugate-Cam dialog.

STEP 4: If required, edit the Extrusion Depths

If you are analyzing the life of the Follower-Roller, make sure the Extrusion Depth of the Follower-Profile is equal to the width of the Follower-Roller you will use in your machine.

STEP 5: Configure the Power-Source

Configure the Power Source for the Follower's kinematic-chain.

Select the 2D-Cam, or the Conjugate-Cam FB (see Step 3) as the Power-Source.

See Configure the Power Source