A Theoretical and Experimental Investigation of Contact Loss in the Clearances of a Four-Bar Mechanism

Abstract

The dynamic behavior of a four-bar mechanism with a clearance at any one of its connections is described using a quasi-static model. Prediction of separation at the joints is based on the deviation of the model at these positions from the zero-clearance values. Corresponding experimental studies have verified the theoretical results satisfactorily. Furthermore, the present model was applied successfully to similar cases published earlier. The existing criteria on the prediction of contact loss are discussed and a new criterion is offered.