Synthesis of cams with negative radius follower and evaluation of the pressure angle

Cam mechanisms with a negative radius roller-follower allow designing simple machines exerting remarkably high forces. On the other hand, specific synthesis problems arise particularly for this type of cams. The present work deepens a numerical study developed by the same authors, studying the influence of many variables upon the pressure angle. The results yield to a cam design where the pressure angle is optimized, allowing a quick identification of its range of values. In particular, an undercutting lower limit of the rise angle for different lifts is highlighted. (C) 2004 Published by Elsevier Ltd.