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CAM & FOLLOWER MECHANISM OVERVIEW A cam and follower mechanism converts rotational movement
into a back and forth linear movement. COMPONENTS A cam is a
simple shape that is rotated on a shaft.
Its shape determines the displacement of the follower mechanism. The cam in the image below has a snail shape – a common
type of cam. When it turns
counter-clockwise, the follower is gradually elevated until it suddenly falls
back do to its lowest point and again begins to elevate. This goes on over and over. The follower in the image has a small wheel. This allows to minimize friction and
increase the durability of the device.
TASK Build it. Question to research:
What other shapes of cams could we use? How would this impact the motions of the
follower?
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