Overconstrained 5-bars with parallel adjacent joint axes — I Method of Analysis

Abstract Almost all overconstrained spatial 4-bar linkages have now been systematically isolated. Several categories of 5- and 6-bar linkages have also been determined, but without reference to any exhaustive form of analysis. In this Part of the present paper, a method will be set up to allow a major attempt in solving the 5-bar linkage problem. Included in the technique is a new procedure for simplifying the analysis of linkages which contain screw joints, a considerable stumbling-block for earlier researchers.