Generation of Alternative Motion with Adjustable Stroke by Deformation of an Elastic Ring

This study presents the generation of a motion profile with adjustable stroke obtained by deforming an elastic ring of constant thickness. With this device, a good approximation to the motion profile of an elliptical cam can be achieved. Using finite element analysis, it is also shown that it is possible to generate different motion profiles close to those normally used in automatic machines when the thickness of the ring is not constant. The possibility of simple stroke control, as well as the low number of mechanical components required to build such a device, could make it a good and cost-effective alternative compared to other types of actuators.