Cams

Question 1

What are the two main parts of a cam mechanism ?

Answer 1

A cam- attached to a crankshaft which rotates

A follower - touches the cam and follows the shape moving up and down

Question 2

What is a circular can ?

Answer 2

Uses an off centre pivot to cause the follow to move up and down

Often used in pistons

Question 3

What is a pear cam ?

Answer 3

Pear cams are in the shape of a pear

It remains stationary then half a turn will rise and fall gently

Often used in carousel horses

Question 4

What is a snail or drop cam ?

Answer 4

Look like snail shells

Cusses the follower to remain stationary for half a turn before gently rising and suddenly falling

Often used on a production line to make regular holes or cuts in an item

Question 5

What is a roller cam ?

Answer 5

Roller followers have a roller such as a ball bearing attached to the bottom of the following

Accurate, low on friction and can withstand load

However they are costly to make