Using the Singularity Trace to Understand Linkage Motion Characteristics

This paper provides examples of a new method used to analyze the motion characteristics of single-degree-of-freedom, closed-loop linkages with a designated input angle and one or two design parameters. The method involves the construction of a singularity trace, which is a plot that reveals changes in the number of geometric inversions, singularities, and changes in the number of branches as a design parameter is varied. This paper applies the method to Watt II, Stephenson III and double butterfly linkages. For the latter two linkages, instances where the input angle is able to rotate more than one revolution between singularities have been identified. This characteristic demonstrates a net-zero, singularity free, activation sequence that places the mechanism into a different geometric inversion. Additional observations from the examples are given. Instances where the singularity trace for Watt II linkages includes multiple coincident projections of the singularity curve. Cases are shown where subtle changes to two design parameters of a Stephenson III linkage drastically alters the motion. Additionally, isolated critical points are found to exist for the double butterfly, where the linkage becomes a structure and looses the freedom to move. ∗Address all correspondence to this author.