6.2. Tangent Cams

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is a tangent cam?

   Hint

   Think about its shape and functionality.

2. 2.

   Explain what undercutting means.

   Hint

   Consider how it affects contact with the follower.

3. 3.

   What are tangent cams primarily characterized by?

   • Only curved profiles
   • Tangential straight and curved portions
   • Only straight portions

   Hint

   Think about their shape.

4. 4.

   True or False: Undercutting only occurs in radial cams.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Consider the definition of undercutting.

5. 5.

   Design a tangent cam for an assembly line robot ensuring minimum undercutting while achieving desired follower motion. Outline the steps you would take in your design process.

   Hint

   Consider the entire motion path and how material affects it.

6. 6.

   Evaluate a scenario where tangent cam usage led to mechanical failure due to misunderstandings of pressure angles. What could have been done differently?

   Hint

   Think about critical checkpoints in the design process.