A geometrico-algebraic exploration of altmann's linkage

Abstract Altmann's linkage is a simplified form of Bricard's line-symmetric loop of six revolutes, but not so simple as to be trivial. It is employed in the book by Phillips for the demonstration of some geometrical ideas and, in turn, prompts the question of algebraic equivalents of those concepts. Here we explore the possibility for the algebraic representation suggested in Phillip's examination, using the technique of screw motor algebra. In doing so, we have occasion to investigate also some novel characteristics of the linkage and to realize an apparently general principle only hinted at in an earlier work.