A Method for Measuring Coupler Paths Generated by Linkage

In this paper,a method for measuring the path generated by a 4-bar linkage is presented. We capture the track of the mid-point of the coupler using laser as a signal generator and CCD(camera) as a signal receptor. An approach is proposed, which emphasizes the importance of concave lens which can scatter the laser and make it an ideal signal source to be captured by the CCD lens. Thus, the measurement would be more precise, taking full advantage of the laser. The method and formulas on optimization of the parameters related to positions are also given in this paper.