Linkage Synthesis for Function Generation

In the realm of linkage synthesis the simplest problem is the coordination of the single-degree-of-freedom (single-dof) motion of one link, termed the output link, with the, likewise, single-dof motion of another link, termed the input link. Moreover, the two foregoing links are not coupled directly, but via an intermediate link, termed the coupler link. The input link, in the most common application, is driven by one single motor, either rotational or translational, the motor being supported by one fourth link, which is the fixed link, resting on the linkage frame. In this chapter we study the synthesis of a four-bar linkage for the production of a single-dof motion of the output link, as remotely driven, i.e., by means of the input link, ususally moving at a constant angular or translational velocity, as the case may be.