Cam and follower is a mechanical kinematic link that coverts rotary motion of cam to linear motion of follower. Cam and follower are a pair of higher links that can be used to move links periodically or immediately. It helps to reduce the degree of error in the transmission process. The cam was first invented in the third century by Hellenistic water-powered automata.
In this article, you’ll learn what is cams and followers, their nomenclature, working principle and more with diagrams. We will also learn about classification of cam and follower and Cam and Follower Uses. SSC JE ME and GATE ME exams have included this fundamental concept in mechanical engineering.
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The internal combustion engine mainly uses cams and follower mechanisms to operate the valves. These valves are used in the fuel ignition system. Automobile engineers use the cam and follower device as a component of the I.C.E timing system to maintain the proper timings between fuel injection in the combustion chamber and fuel ignition to produce energy.
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Purchase Now Want to know more about this Super Coaching ? Explore SuperCoaching NowA cam and follower system is a mechanical arrangement consisting of a cam, which is a specially shaped rotating element, and a follower, which is a device that follows the contour of the cam. The cam's shape dictates the motion of the follower, allowing for precise control and coordination in various applications.
Cam and Follower is also used in other machinery like gear systems. In the most basic form the system consists of three major components. A driving member is called the cam, a frame that holds the cam and the follower. The cam is controlled by the frame, and finally, the driven member is specified as the follower.
All-in-One Pass For All Your ExamsA cam and follower is a mechanism that converts rotary motion into linear motion. The cam is a rotating element with an irregular shape that interacts with a follower, which is a sliding or rolling element. The motion of the cam causes the follower to move, enabling the conversion of motion from one form to another. Cam and follower mechanisms are used in various applications, including engines, pumps, and automation systems.
The cam is a profiled disc, cylinder or sphere that rotates. The shape or profile of the cam influences the motion of the follower. The cam is directly in contact with the follower. A follower is another component of this machine, and it is made to oscillate or reciprocate by the cam.
The primary purpose of this component is to convert rotational motion into linear motion for another component. It is a machine component that can be connected to an electric wheel that rotates or a shaft that strikes different points on a lever along a circular route.
Camshafts for internal combustion engines have traditionally been produced by casting, steel forging, or cutting steel bar stock.
A follower is a rotating or oscillating component of a device that directly tracks the motion of a cam. If a cam moves back and forth, the follower moves vertically with regard to the cam's axis.
The primary function of this machine component is to follow the cam, which may be oscillating or reciprocating. It alters the cam's rotary motion so that it now oscillates or reciprocates.
Figure 1: Cam and Follower Diagram
