Coupler Curves of A Four
Coupler Curves of A Four
Procedure:
1. We accurately measured the lengths of the crank OB and the coupler BC.
2. We mark the position of three points (1,2,3) on the coupler BC so as to divide it into 4
equal parts.
3. For the crank angle 0, we accurately measured the values of x1, x2, x3 as well as y1, y2, y3
and tabulated as in table 1.
4. We repeated 3 above for crank angles 0+300, 0+600, 0+900, ………….0+3600, At least
making one full revolution of the crank in increments of 300. The values are as in the
table 1 below.
Crank angle X1 Y1 X2 Y2 X3 Y3
0 6.5 0 13.5 0 20.5 0
30 7.5 1 14.5 2 21.5 3
60 10.5 2 17.5 3.5 24.5 5
90 15 2 21.5 4 28.5 5.5
120 18.5 1.7 25.5 3.5 32.5 5
150 20.5 1 27.5 2 34.5 3
180 21.5 0 28.5 0 35.5 0
210 20.5 1 27.5 2 34.5 3
240 18.5 1.7 25.5 3.5 32.5 5
270 15 2 21.5 4 28.5 5.5
300 10.5 2 17.5 3.5 24.5 5
330 7.5 1 14.5 2 21.5 3
360 6.5 0 13.5 0 20.5 0
Table 1.
graph of y1 agaist x1
2.5
1.5
0.5
0
6.5 7.5 10.5 15 18.5 20.5 21.5 20.5 18.5 15 10.5 7.5 6.5
Figure 1
Discussion
The curve of a coupler curves in a four-bar mechanism looks sinusoidal but not exactly
sinusoidal. In this this appearance of the curve is influenced by the complex interplay between
geometric constraints, kinematic principles, and trigonometric relationships governing the
motion of the mechanism. The wave-like patterns of this curves reflect the fundamental
characteristics of the mechanisms motion.
Conclusion:
The experiment successfully demonstrated the process of generating and analyzing coupler
curves in a four-bar linkage mechanism. The recorded data and plotted curves provided insights
into the kinematic behavior of the linkage system. Understanding the coupler curves is essential
for the design and analysis of mechanisms in various engineering applications.
Reference:
"Theory of Machines and Mechanisms" by John J. Uicker, Jr., Gordon R. Pennock, and Joseph E.
Shigley.