Nomographic Synthesis of Generator Linkages

Machines are doing more complex jobs; the need grows for simple operation and low cost of parts. The generator, or computer, linkage often fills this bill if technical requirements can be met by good methods for practical design. This article presents a graphical technique for optimizing generator-linkage design by systematic scanning of five linkage parameters. A nomograph of linkage behavior, simplified through symmetry of quadrilateral relationships, fixes the optimum linkage as a rectilinear, horizontal plot from which a measure of the error is available.