Terminologies, Definitions

Link:
A machine part or a component of a mechanism. The rigid connection between two or more elements of different kinematic pairs. It is assumed to be completely rigid. (e.g. spring is not a link) Sometimes a machine member may possess one way rigidity. (e.g. a belt or chain) (i.e. link when in tension) Driver (input) and follower (output) link. It hold constant spatial relationships between the elements of its pairs.

Kinematic Pairs:
The connections / joints between driver and follower are called kinematic pairs or just pairs.
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Terminologies, Definitions
Binary Links: containing only two pair element connections. Ternary Links: having 3 pair element connections. Kinematic chain:
When several links are movably connected together by joints, they are said to form a kinematic chain. If every link in the chain is connected to at least two other links, the chain forms one or more closed loops and is called a closed kinematic chain. Else an open kinematic chain. Simple-Closed Chain: the chain consisting entirely of binary links. Compound-Closed Chain: the chain include other than binary links and thus form more than a single closed loop.
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Terminologies, Definitions
Frame or Base Link: In a closed kinematic chain it is necessary to have one link fixed which is than chosen as the frame of reference for all other links. Lower Pairs:
Have surface contact between the pair elements. such as the pin joint.

Higher Pairs:
Have line or point contact between the elemental surfaces. such as the connection between a cam and its follower. Wrapping Pairs: e.g. belt & pulley, chain & sprocket, rope and drum.

Linkage:
Those mechanisms that have only lower pairs are called a 3 linkage.

Planar Mechanism:
It is a mechanism in which all the particles describe planar curves in space and all these curves lie in parallel planes. The motion transformation of any such mechanism is called coplanar.

Spherical Mechanism:
is one in which each link has some point that remains stationary as the linkage moves and in which the stationary points of all links lie at a common location; i.e. the locus of each point is a curve contained in a spherical surface, and the spherical surfaces defined by several arbitrarily chosen points are all concentric. The motions of all particles can therefore be completely described by their radial projections on the surface of a 4 sphere with a properly chosen center.

Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Snap Action Mechanisms :
(spring clips and circuit breakers)

Linear Actuators:
a)Stationary

screws with travelling nuts b)Stationary nuts with travelling screws c)Single and double acting hydraulic & pneumatic cylinders

Classification of Mechanisms
Fine adjustment Mechanisms :

Clamping Mechanisms :
C-clamp, b)wood workers screw clamp, c)Lever actuated clamps d)Vises e)pressses
a)

Location devices:
15 location mechanisms are identified Usually self centering and locate either axially or angularly.
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Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Ratchets and escapements:

Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Indexing Mechanisms :

Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Swinging or Rocking Mechanisms (oscillators):

Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Reciprocating Mechanisms :

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Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Reciprocating Mechanisms :

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Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Couplings and Connecters:

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Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Reversing Mechanisms (e.g. 2-way clutch): Sliding Connectors: Stop, Pause & Hesitation Mechanisms automotive engine valve):
(e.g.

6-bar stop-and-dwell mechanism

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Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Curve Generators (Hrones-Nelson atlas):

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Classification of Mechanisms (Torfason)

Straight- Line Generators:

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