Dwell linkages - representative models for quick practical solutions

Linkages are much easier to manufacture and are inexpensive to maintain than cams which are traditionally used for dwell applications. The development of design methods for dwell linkages has not been easy due to difficulty in deriving an explicit motion expression in terms of design parameters to seek solutions. The 'indirect synthesis' design methodology presented in this paper takes into consideration the entire motion characteristics of dwell linkages, and relates the motion characteristics to the linkage parameters and the shape of the basic coupler curves. This design methodology led to a computerized catalog of distinct dwell linkage models that cover a variety of dewll motions such that any given design specification can be matched with one of the established models.