Cams Flashcards
What does a cam change
The input motion, which is usually rotary motion, to a reciprocating motion of the follower.
Where are cams found
They are for me in many machines and toys
How many parts does a cam have and what are they
Two parts, the follow and the cam profile
Key phrases:
One cycle
One rotation/revolution of the cam
Key phrases:
Dwell
When the cam rotates but the follower does not rise or fall
Key phrases:
The rise
The part of the cam that causes the follower to rise
What are the four types of follower
Flat follower
Point knife follower
Roller follower
Offset follower
What are cam profiles
Cams can be shaped in any number of ways and this is determined by the way the follower is to move. The shape of the cam is called the PROFILE.
Cam profiles:
Pear
Pear shaped cams are used on the shafts of cars. The follower remains motionless for about half of the cycle of the cam and during the second half it rises and falls.
Cam profiles:
Eccentric
Circular cams or eccentric cams produce a smooth motion. These cams are used in steam engines.
Cam profiles:
Heart
Heart shaped cams allow the follower to rise and fall with ‘uniform’ velocity.
