Analytical Dynamic Response of Elastic Cam-Follower Systems with Distributed Parameter Return Spring

An analytical method of solution for the high-speed dynamic response of a lumped/distributed parameter model for cam-follower systems is developed. The model combines the distributed parameter model of the return spring with a viscously damped, single degree-of-freedom, lumped model of the elastic follower train. The cam event is considered as a periodic motion, of period 360 deg, and is represented by its Fourier series approximation. Linear systems approach utilizing four-pole parameter representation of lumped and distributed elements is adopted. The applicability and the accuracy of the method are verified with the aid of the experimental results reported in recent literature on the dynamic response of a high-speed cam-follower system.