ABSTRACT

In comparison to classical kinematic synthesis, a substantial array of methodologies and mathematical models has been developed for the kinematic synthesis of adjustable planar and spatial mechanisms. An adjustable mechanism includes fixed and/or moving pivots that can be adjusted to achieve multiple mechanism configurations—each configuration achieving or approximating a particular group of precision positions or precision points. The primary advantage of adjustable kinematic synthesis is that it introduces a greater degree of flexibility in application to a single set of mechanism hardware. Since each mechanism configuration approximates a specific group of precision positions or precision points, the adjustable mechanism offers a greater degree of application flexibility over a nonadjustable mechanism. There are up to four possible dyad adjustment options for a four-bar planar or spherical mechanism. These adjustment options are constant-length and adjustable-length fixed pivot adjustments and constant-length and adjustable-length moving pivot adjustments.