In a Cam mechanism, you can design the oscillating or reciprocating motion for a Tool-Part and let MechDesigner do the inverse-kinematics to calculate the oscillating motion of a swinging Follower-Part. Typically, the Follower-Part must rotate by an angle that is less than 60º, usually less than 45º, and ideally less than 30º.

In a Servo mechanism, you can design the motion for a Tool-Part and let MechDesigner do the inverse-kinematics to calculate the motion of a rotating servo-axis. However, the rotation of a servo-axis is not limited. It can even oscillate by 180º, or even continually rotate with a modulated motion, to give the motion you have designed for the Tool-Part.

This is one application of the Continuous-Crank FB - it automatically calculates the correct length and motion of a servo-axis to give the motion you have designed for a Tool-Part.

STEP 1: Add a Continuous-Crank FB to the graphics-area

The Continuous-Crank FB is now in the graphics-area and Assembly-Tree.

STEP 2: Open the Continuous-Crank dialog:

The Continuous-Crank dialog is now open.

STEP 3: See Continuous-Crank FB dialog