Cam and Follower Design Basics
Cams produce precise, repeating output motion from a rotating input. When the motion profile must be exact, a cam is often the cleanest answer.
Cams produce precise, repeating output motion from a rotating input. When the motion profile must be exactly defined, a cam is often the cleanest answer.
Design choices that matter
- Rise-return-dwell profiles matched to the application
- Avoiding jerk with sinusoidal motion laws
- Spring load to keep the follower in contact
- Material and surface finish chosen for wear life
The trap: cams are cheap to run but expensive to make. For low-volume products, a linkage or even a programmable actuator can deliver the same motion at far lower tooling cost.
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