Optimal synthesis and kinematic analysis of adjustable four-bar linkages to generate filleted rectangular paths

ABSTRACT

Continuous and precise path generation of filleted-rectangle using adjustable four-bar mechanism is presented. Coupler path passing through precision points is verified using reconstructed adjustable parameter curve (RAPC) method proposed in this article. This method extracts adjustable parameter values of intermediate path points, along the filleted rectangular path generation profile, corresponding to uniformly incremented crank input values without using interpolation of data points. Influence of number of precision points and spacing between them in achieving perfect coupler path of filleted-rectangle are analyzed. Verification of filleted-rectangle path generation and kinematic analysis of adjustable four-bar crank-rocker mechanism are carried out through motion simulation. Hybrid method combining Genetic Algorithm and Pattern Search is used in the synthesis of adjustable four-bar mechanisms to generate coupler path for three different filleted-rectangles. Results and conclusions prove the validity of the method suggested in this work.

KEYWORDS:

• Adjustable four-bar mechanism
• filleted rectangular path
• harmonic spacing
• optimal synthesis
• pattern search
• RAPC