CAM - EXAMPLES AND QUESTIONS

POSSIBLE ANSWERS

As you have seen in the previous examples, cams can be used to change rotary motion into linear motion. Examine the cams on this page and explain how the various cam profiles control the movement of the followers.

1. What is the name of this cam profile? Explain how it controls the movement of the follower.

PEAR SHAPED CAM. As the cam rotates, the follower stays level for ½ a revolution, then it rises and falls following the cam profile.

2. What is the name of this cam profile? Explain how it controls the movement of the follower.

DROP CAM. As the drop cam rotates the follower stays level for a short time. It then rises slowly and suddenly drops

ECCENTRIC CAM. The follower moves up and down in a vertical direction. Its movement is very smooth.

SWASH CAM. This cam is like a ‘spinning top’. As the angled disc rotates the follower rises and falls, following the movement of the disc.

BOX CAM. As the disc (cam) rotates, the follower - follows a groove cut into the disc.

FLAT PLATE CAM. The follower rises and falls according the movement of the cam profile , as it travels from left to right.

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