The non-linear dynamic behavior of an elastic linkage mechanism with clearances

In terms of Newton two-state model, by choosing two sets of generalized co-ordinates, this paper develops a unified dynamic model between the separation and collision process for the elastic linkage mechanism. This model incorporates the effects of rigidity and elasticity coupling and the angular velocity of crank is assumed to be variable in the operation. In addition, this paper provides a more simple and practical numerical solution method for convenient analysis. Through an example, the dynamic responses of the elastic linkage mechanism with clearances are analyzed, both the effects of elasticity and clearance on the dynamic behaviors of the mechanism are analyzed simultaneously and the non-linear behaviors caused by the clearance joints are analyzed by the dynamic model of rigid mechanism. (C) 2002 Academic Press.