Subject: KINEMATICS OF MACHINES

Topic: VELOCITY AND ACCELERATION

Session I

Introduction

Kinematics deals with study of relative motion between the various parts of the
machines. Kinematics does not involve study of forces. Thus motion leads study of
displacement, velocity and acceleration of a part of the machine.
Study of Motions of various parts of a machine is important for determining their
velocities and accelerations at different moments.
As dynamic forces are a function of acceleration and acceleration is a function of
velocities, study of velocity and acceleration will be useful in the design of
mechanism of a machine. The mechanism will be represented by a line diagram which
is known as configuration diagram. The analysis can be carried out both by graphical
method as well as analytical method.

Some important Definitions

Displacement: All particles of a body move in parallel planes and travel by same
distance is known, linear displacement and is denoted by x.
A body rotating about a fired point in such a way that all particular move in
circular path angular displacement and is denoted by .
Velocity:
Rate of change of displacement is velocity. Velocity can be linear
velocity of angular velocity.
Linear velocity is Rate of change of linear displacement= V =

dx
dt

Angular velocity is Rate of change of angular displacement = =

Relation between linear velocity and angular velocity.

x = r
dx
d
= r
dt
dt

V = r
=

d
dt

Acceleration: Rate of change of velocity

d
dt

f=
Thirdly =

dv d 2 x
2 Linear Acceleration (Rate of change of linear velocity)
dt
dt
d d 2
2 Angular Acceleration (Rate of change of angular velocity)
dt
dt

We also have,
Absolute velocity: Velocity of a point with respect to a fixed point (zero velocity
point).

A
2
O2
Va = 2 x r
Va = 2 x O2 A
Ex: Vao2 is absolute velocity.
Relative velocity: Velocity of a point with respect to another point x
B
3
A

2
O2

O4

Ex: Vba Velocity of point B with respect to A

Note: Capital letters are used for configuration diagram. Small letters are used for
velocity vector diagram.
This is absolute velocity

Velocity of point A with respect to O2 fixed point, zero velocity point.

B
3
A

Vba = or Vab
Vba = or Vab Equal in magnitude but opposite in direction.
B

O4

Vb Absolute velocity is velocity of B with respect to O4 (fixed point, zero velocity

point)
b
Vba

Vb
O2, O4
Vab
a
Velocity vector diagram

Vector O 2 a = Va= Absolute velocity

Vector ab = Vab
ba = Va

Relative velocity

Vab is equal magnitude with Vba but is apposite in direction.

Vector O 4 b = Vb absolute velocity.

To illustrate the difference between absolute velocity and relative velocity.
Let, us consider a simple situation.
A link AB moving in a vertical plane such that the link is inclined at 30 o to the
horizontal with point A is moving horizontally at 4 m/s and point B moving vertically
upwards. Find velocity of B.

Va = 4 m/s ab

Absolute velocity

Horizontal direction
(known in magnitude and directors)

Vb = ?

Absolute velocity

ab

Vertical direction
(known in directors only)

30o

Va

4 m/s

a
Vab

Vb

B
Vba

Velocity of B with respect to A is equal in magnitude to velocity of A with

respect to B but opposite in direction.

Relative Velocity Equation

y

Rigid body

A
ya

R
O
O4

xA

Fig. 1 Point O is fixed and End A is a point on rigid body.

Rotation of a rigid link about a fixed centre.

Consider rigid link rotating about a fixed centre O, as shown in figure. The
distance between O and A is R and OA makes and angle with x-axis next link
xA = R cos , yA = R sin .
Differentiating xA with respect to time gives velocity.

d xA
d
R sin
dt
dt

= - R sin

Similarly,

dy A
d
R cos
dt
dt

= - R cos

Let,

d yA

d xA
VAx
dt

dt

VAy

d
= angular velocity of OA
dt

VAx = - R sin

VAy = - R cos
Total velocity of point A is given by
VA =

R sin 2 R cos 2

VA = R

Relative Velocity Equation of Two Points on a Rigid link

Rigid body

yB

R sin
yA

A
R cos
xA

xB

Fig. 2 Points A and B are located on rigid body

From Fig. 2
xB = xA + R cos

yB = yA + R sin

Differentiating xB and yB with respect to time

we get,
d xB
d
d
VBx xA R sin
dt
dt
dt

Similarly,

d yB
dt

Similarly,

VBy
d yA
dt

d xA
R sin VAx R sin
dt

d yA
dt

R cos

d
dt

R cos VAy R cos

VA = VAx

VAy = Total velocity of point A

VB = VBx

VBy = Total velocity of point B

= VAx

(R sin )

= ( VAx

VAy )

= ( VAx

VAy ) VA Similarly, ( R sin + R cos ) = R

VB = VA

VAy

R cos

(R sin + R cos )

R = VA

VBA

VBA = VB VA
Velocity analysis of any mechanism can be carried out by various methods.
1. By graphical method
2. By relative velocity method
3. By instantaneous method

By Graphical Method

The following points are to be considered while solving problems by this

method.
1. Draw the configuration design to a suitable scale.
2. Locate all fixed point in a mechanism as a common point in velocity diagram.
3. Choose a suitable scale for the vector diagram velocity.
4. The velocity vector of each rotating link is r to the link.
5. Velocity of each link in mechanism has both magnitude and direction. Start
from a point whose magnitude and direction is known.
6. The points of the velocity diagram are indicated by small letters.
To explain the method let us take a few specific examples.
1. Four Bar Mechanism: In a four bar chain ABCD link AD is fixed and in 15 cm
long. The crank AB is 4 cm long rotates at 180 rpm (cw) while link CD rotates
about D is 8 cm long BC = AD and | BAD = 60o. Find angular velocity of link
CD.
C
15 cm
B
8 cm
BA
60o
A

D
15 cm
Configuration Diagram

Velocity vector diagram

Vb = r = ba x AB =

2x 120
x 4 = 50.24 cm/sec
60

Choose a suitable scale

1 cm = 20 m/s = ab

r to CD
a, d

Vcb

r to BC
r to AB
b

Vcb = bc
Vc = dc = 38 cm/sec = Vcd
We know that V = R
Vcd = CD x CD
cD =

Vcd 38
4.75 rad/sec (cw)
CD 8

2. Slider Crank Mechanism:

In a crank and slotted lever mechanism crank rotates of 300 rpm in a counter
clockwise direction. Find
(i)

Angular velocity of connecting rod and

(ii)

Velocity of slider.
A
60 mm

150 mm

45o

B
Configuration diagram

Step 1: Determine the magnitude and velocity of point A with respect to 0,

VA = O1A x O2A =

2 x 300
x 60
60

= 600 mm/sec
Step 2: Choose a suitable scale to draw velocity vector diagram.

Va

r to AB

r to OA

O
Along sides B
Velocity vector diagram

Vab = ab =1300mm/sec
ba =

Vba 1300

8.66 rad/sec
BA
150

Vb = ob velocity of slider
Note: Velocity of slider is along the line of sliding.
3. Shaper Mechanism:
In a crank and slotted lever mechanisms crank O2A rotates at rad/sec in
CCW direction. Determine the velocity of slider.
6
D

Scale 1 cm = x. m

O2

3
B

O1

Configuration diagram

Scale 1 cm = x. m/s

VAO2 = VA

VBA

b
VBO1
VDC
d

O1O2
Velocity vector diagram

Va = 2 x O2A
O1 b O1c

O1 B O1C

To locate point C
O C
O1c O1 b 1
O1 B

To Determine Velocity of Rubbing

Two links of a mechanism having turning point will be connected by pins.
When the links are motion they rub against pin surface. The velocity of rubbing of
pins depends on the angular velocity of links relative to each other as well as
direction.
For example: In a four bar mechanism we have pins at points A, B, C and D.
Vra = ab x ratios of pin A (rpa)
+ sign is used ab is CW and Wbc is CCW i.e. when angular velocities are in
opposite directions use + sign when angular velocities are in some directions use
-ve sign.
Vrb = (ab + bc) radius rpb
VrC = (bc + cd) radius rpc
VrD = cd rpd

10

Problems on velocity by velocity vector method (Graphical solutions)

Problem 1:
In a four bar mechanism, the dimensions of the links are as given below:
AB = 50 mm,

BC = 66 mm

CD = 56 mm

and

AD = 100 mm

At a given instant when | DAB 60 o the angular velocity of link AB is 10.5

rad/sec in CCW direction.
Determine,
i)

Velocity of point C

ii)

Velocity of point E on link BC when BE = 40 mm

iii)

The angular velocity of link BC and CD

iv)

The velocity of an offset point F on link BC, if BF = 45 mm, CF =

30 mm and BCF is read clockwise.

v)

The velocity of an offset point G on link CD, if CG = 24 mm, DG

= 44 mm and DCG is read clockwise.

vi)

The velocity of rubbing of pins A, B, C and D. The ratio of the

pins are 30 mm, 40 mm, 25 mm and 35 mm respectively.

Solution:
Step -1: Construct the configuration diagram selecting a suitable scale.
Scale: 1 cm = 20 mm
C
G

B
F

60o
A

Step 2: Given the angular velocity of link AB and its direction of rotation determine
velocity of point with respect to A (A is fixed hence, it is zero velocity point).
Vba = BA x BA
= 10.5 x 0.05 = 0.525 m/s
11

Step 3: To draw velocity vector diagram choose a suitable scale, say 1 cm = 0.2 m/s.

First locate zero velocity points.

Draw a line r to link AB in the direction of rotation of link AB (CCW) equal

to 0.525 m/s.
b
Vba = 0.525 m/s
e, g
a, d

f
C

Ved

From b draw a line r to BC and from d. Draw d line r to CD to interest at C.

Vcb is given vector bc Vbc = 0.44 m/s

Vcd is given vector dc Vcd = 0.39 m/s

Step 4: To determine velocity of point E (Absolute velocity) on link BC, first locate
the position of point E on velocity vector diagram. This can be done by taking
corresponding ratios of lengths of links to vector distance i.e.
be BE

bc BC

be =

BE
0.04
x Vcb =
x 0.44 = 0.24 m/s
BC
0.066

Join e on velocity vector diagram to zero velocity points a, d / vector de = Ve

= 0.415 m/s.
Step 5: To determine angular velocity of links BC and CD, we know Vbc and Vcd.
Vbc = BC x BC
BC =
Similarly,

Vbc
0.44

6.6 r / s . (cw)
BC 0.066

Vcd = CD x CD
CD =

Vcd
0.39

6.96 r / s (CCW)
CD 0.056

Step 6: To determine velocity of an offset point F

Draw a line r to CF from C on velocity vector diagram.

12

Draw a line r to BF from b on velocity vector diagram to intersect the

previously drawn line at f.

From the point f to zero velocity point a, d and measure vector fa to get
Vf = 0.495 m/s.

Step 7: To determine velocity of an offset point.

Draw a line r to GC from C on velocity vector diagram.

Draw a line r to DG from d on velocity vector diagram to intersect previously

drawn line at g.

Measure vector dg to get velocity of point G.

Vg = dg 0.305 m / s

Step 8: To determine rubbing velocity at pins

Rubbing velocity at pin A will be

Vpa = ab x r of pin A
Vpa = 10.5 x 0.03 = 0.315 m/s

Rubbing velocity at pin B will be

Vpb = (ab + cb) x rpb of point at B.
[ab CCW and cbCW]
Vpb = (10.5 + 6.6) x 0.04 = 0.684 m/s.

Rubbing velocity at point C will be

= 6.96 x 0.035 = 0.244 m/s

Problem 2:
In a slider crank mechanism the crank is 200 mm long and rotates at 40
rad/sec in a CCW direction. The length of the connecting rod is 800 mm. When the
crank turns through 60o from Inner-dead centre.
Determine,
i)

The velocity of the slider

ii)

Velocity of point E located at a distance of 200 mm on the connecting rod

extended.

iii)

The position and velocity of point F on the connecting rod having the least
absolute velocity.

iv)

The angular velocity of connecting rod.

13

v)

The velocity of rubbing of pins of crank shaft, crank and cross head having
pins diameters 80,60 and 100 mm respectively.

Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram by selecting a suitable scale.
E

A
F
45o
B
O

Va = Woa x OA
Va = 40 x 0.2
Va = 8 m/s
Step 2: Choose a suitable scale for velocity vector diagram and draw the velocity
vector diagram.

Mark zero velocity point o, g.

Draw oa r to link OA equal to 8 m/s

e
a

Scale: 1 cm = 2 m/s

f
b

o, g

From a draw a line r to AB and from o, g draw a horizontal line (representing

the line of motion of slider B) to intersect the previously drawn line at b.

ab give Vba=4.8 m/sec

Step 3: To mark point e since E is on the extension of link AB drawn be =

BE
x ab mark the point e on extension of vector ba. Join e to o, g. ge will give
AB
velocity of point E.

Ve = ge =8.4 m/sec

14

Step 4: To mark point F on link AB such that this has least velocity (absolute).
Draw a line r to ab passing through o, g to cut the vector ab at f. From f to
o, g. gf will have the least absolute velocity.

To mark the position of F on link AB.

Find BF by using the relation.

fb
ab

BF AB
BF

fb
x AB =200mm
ab

Step 5: To determine the angular velocity of connecting rod.

We know that Vab = ab x AB
ab =

Vab
= 6 rad/sec
AB

Step 6: To determine velocity of rubbing of pins.

Vpcrankshaft = ao x radius of crankshaft pin

= 8 x 0.08
= 0.64 m/s

VPcrank pin = (ab + oa) rcrank pin= (6 +8)0.06 =0.84 m/sec

VP cross head = ab x rcross head = 6 x 0.1 = 0.6 m/sec

15

Problem 3: A quick return mechanism of crank and slotted lever type shaping
machine is shown in Fig. the dimensions of various links are as follows.
O1O2 = 800 mm, O1B = 300 mm, O2D = 1300 mm and DR = 400 mm

The crank O1B makes an angle of 45o with the vertical and relates at 40 rpm in
the CCW direction. Find:

i)

Velocity of the Ram R, velocity of cutting tool, and

ii)

Angular velocity of link O2D.

Solution:

Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.

R
Tool

200
D

B on orank, O, B
C on O2D

O1

O1

O2
O2

Step 2: Determine velocity of point B.

Vb = O1B x O1B
O1B =

2N O1B 2 x 40

4.18 rad / sec

60
60

Vb = 4.18 x 0.3 = 1.254 m/sec

16

B
2

45o

Step 3: Draw velocity vector diagram.

Choose a suitable scale 1 cm = 0.3 m/sec
b
d
c
O1O2

r
o Draw O1b r to link O1B equal to 1.254 m/s.

o From b draw a line along the line of O2B and from O1O2 draw a line r to
O2B. This intersects at c bc will measure velocity of sliding of slider and

O 2 C will measure the velocity of C on link O2C.

o Since point D is on the extension of link O2C measure O 2 d such that

O 2d = O 2C

O2D
. O 2 d will give velocity of point D.
O 2C

o From d draw a line r to link DR and from O1O2. Draw a line along the
line of stroke of Ram R (horizontal), These two lines will intersect at point
r O 2 r will give the velocity of Ram R.
o To determine the angular velocity of link O2D determine Vd = O 2 d .
We know that Vd = O2D x O2D.
O 2 d

17

O2d
r/s
O 2D

Problem 4: Figure below shows a toggle mechanisms in which the crank OA

rotates at 120 rpm. Find the velocity and acceleration of the slider D.

Solution:
120

All the dimensions in mm

45o

40
190

100
135

120

Configuration Diagram
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram choosing a suitable scal.
Step 2: Determine velocity of point A with respect to O.
Vao = OA x OA
Vao =

2 x 120
0.4 5.024 m / s
60

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram.

o Choose a suitable scale
o Mark zero velocity points O,q
o Draw vector oa r to link OA and magnitude = 5.024 m/s.
a

O,q
Velocity vector diagram

18

o From a draw a line r to AB and from q draw a line r to QB to intersect at

b.
ab Vba and qb Vbq .

o Draw a line r to BD from b from q draw a line along the slide to intersect
at d.

dq Vd (slider velocity)

Problem 5: A whitworth quick return mechanism shown in figure has the

following dimensions of the links.

The crank rotates at an angular velocity of 2.5 r/s at the moment when crank
makes an angle of 45o with vertical. Calculate
OP (crank) = 240 mm
a) the velocity of the Ram S
OA = 150 mm
b) the velocity of slider P on the slotted level
AR = 165 mm
c) the angular velocity of the link RS.
RS = 430 mm

Solution:

Step 1: To draw configuration diagram to a suitable scale.

R

O
45o

P on slider Q on
BA
B

Configuration Diagram

19

Step 2: To determine the absolute velocity of point P.

VP = OP x OP
Vao =

2 x 240
x 0.24 0.6 m / s
60

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram by choosing a suitable scale.

P
0.6 m

S
O, a, g
r
Velocity vector diagram
o Draw op r link OP = 0.6 m.
o From O, a, g draw a line r to AP/AQ and from P draw a line along AP to
intersect previously draw, line at q. Pq = Velocity of sliding.

aq = Velocity of Q with respect to A.

Vqa = aq =

o Angular velocity of link RS = RS

20

sr
rad/sec
SR

Problem 6: A toggle mechanism is shown in figure along with the diagrams of

the links in mm. find the velocities of the points B and C and the angular
velocities of links AB, BQ and BC. The crank rotates at 50 rpm in the clockwise
direction.
C
Q

100

B
140
OA = 30
AB = 80
A

BQ = 100

50 rpm

BC = 100

All dimensions are in mm

Solution

Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram to a suitable scale.

Step 2: Calculate the magnitude of velocity of A with respect to O.
Va = OA x OA
2 x 50
Va =
x 0.03 0.05 m / s 0.1507 m / s
60

O, q

c
c
Vector velocity diagram
21

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram by choosing a suitable scale.

o Draw Oa r to link OA = 0.15 m/s
o From a draw a link r to AB and from O, q draw a link r to BQ to intersect at
b.

ab Vba
ab =

and qb Vb 0.13 m / s

ab
qb
0.74 r / s (ccw ) bq
1.3 r / s (ccw )
AB
aB

o From b draw a line r to Be and from O, q these two lines intersect at C.

OC VC 0.106 m / s
bC VCb
BC

bc
1.33 r / s (ccw )
BC

Problem 7: The mechanism of a stone crusher has the dimensions as shown in

figure in mm. If crank rotates at 120 rpm CW. Find the velocity of point K when
crank OA is inclined at 30o to the horizontal. What will be the torque required at
the crank to overcome a horizontal force of 40 kN at K.
500
60o

A
M
100

hz
h2 100

200
400

600

600

D
320

360
B

200

Configuration diagram

Solution:

Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram to a suitable scale.

22

Step 2: Given speed of crank OA determine velocity of A with respect to o.

2 x 120
Va = OA x OA =
x 0.1 1.26 m / s
60

Vk(hz)

o, q, m

c
Velocity vector diagram

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram by selecting a suitable scale.

o Draw Oa r to link OA = 1.26 m/s
o From a draw a link r to AB and from q draw a link r to BQ to intersect at b.
o From b draw a line r to BC and from a, draw a line r to AC to intersect at c.
o From c draw a line r to CD and from m draw a line r to MD to intersect at d.
o From d draw a line r to KD and from m draw a line r to KM to x intersect
the previously drawn line at k.
o Since we have to determine the torque required at OA to overcome a
horizontal force of 40 kN at K. Draw a the horizontal line from o, q, m and c
line r to this line from k.

T I T O
P

V = R

T=FxP

F=

T
r

OA TOA = Fk Vk horizontal
TOA =
TOA =

Fk Vk hz
OA

40000 X 0.45
=
12.6

N-m

23

Problem 8: In the mechanism shown in figure link OA = 320 mm, AC = 680 mm

and OQ = 650 mm.

Determine,
i)

The angular velocity of the cylinder

ii)

The sliding velocity of the plunger

iii)

The absolute velocity of the plunger

When the crank OA rotates at 20 rad/sec clockwise.

Solution:

Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.

A
B on AR (point on AR
below Q)
C

60o
O

Step 2: Draw the velocity vector diagram

o Determine velocity of point A with respect to O.
Va = OA x OA = 20 x 0.32 = 6.4 m/s
o Select a suitable scale to draw the velocity vector diagram.
o Mark the zero velocity point. Draw vector oa r to link OA equal to 6.4 m/s.
a

O, q

c
b

o From a draw a line r to AB and from o, q, draw a line perpendicular to AB.

o To mark point c on ab
We know that

ab
ac

AB
AC

24

 ac

ab x AC
=
AB

o Mark point c on ab and joint this to zero velocity point.

o Angular velocity of cylinder will be.
ab =

Vab
= 5.61 rad/sec (c)
AB

o Studying velocity of player will be

qb = 4.1 m/s

o Absolute velocity of plunger =

OC
qc

= 4.22 m/s

Problem 9: In a swiveling joint mechanism shown in figure link AB is the driving

crank which rotates at 300 rpm clockwise. The length of the various links are:
AB = 650 mm

Determine,
i)

The velocity of slider block S

AB = 100 mm

ii)

The angular velocity of link EF

BC = 800 mm

iii)

The velocity of link EF in the swivel block.

DC = 250 mm
BE = CF
EF = 400 mm
OF = 240 mm
FS = 400 mm

Solution:

Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.

F

400

S
O

P
G

400
300

B
45o
A

25

Step 2: Determine the velocity of point B with respect to A.

Vb = BA x BA
Vb =

2 x 300
x 0.1 = 3.14 m/s
60

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram choosing a suitable scale.

o Mark zero velocity point a, d, o, g.
f

b
P

a, d, o, g

c
Velocity vector diagram

o From a draw a line r to AB and equal to 3.14 m/s.

o From b draw a line r to DC to intersect at C.
o Mark a point e on vector bc such that
be bc x

BE
BC

o From e draw a line r to PE and from a,d draw a line along PE to intersect
at P.
o Extend the vector ep to ef such that ef

ef
x EF
EP

o From f draw a line r to Sf and from zero velocity point draw a line along
the slider S to intersect the previously drawn line at S.
o

Velocity of slider gS 2.6 m / s . Angular Velocity of link EF.

o Velocity of link F in the swivel block = OP 1.85 m / s .

Problem 10: Figure shows two wheels 2 and 4 which rolls on a fixed link 1. The
angular uniform velocity of wheel is 2 is 10 rod/sec. Determine the angular
velocity of links 3 and 4, and also the relative velocity of point D with respect to
point E.

26

 50 mm
40 mm
B
30

3
60 mm

A
D

Solution:

Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.

Step 2: Given 2 = 10 rad/sec. Calculate velocity of B with respect to G.
Vb = 2 x BG
Vb = 10 x 43 = 430 mm/sec.
Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram by choosing a suitable scale.
B
C

30o

G
50 mm

Redrawn configuration diagram

27

Velocity vector diagram

c
b

g, f

o Draw gb = 0.43 m/s r to BG.

o From b draw a line r to BC and from f draw a line r to CF to intersect at C.
o From b draw a line r to BE and from g, f draw a line r to GE to intersect at
e.
o From c draw a line r to CD and from f draw a line r to FD to intersect at d.

Problem 11: For the mechanism shown in figure link 2 rotates at constant angular
velocity of 1 rad/sec construct the velocity polygon and determine.
i)

Velocity of point D.

ii)

Angular velocity of link BD.

iii)

Velocity of slider C.

Solution:

Step 1: Draw configuration diagram.

D

O2 = 50.8 mm
AB = 102 mm
BD = 102 mm

O6

DO6 = 102 mm
5
102 mm

AC = 203 mm

A
3

45o

C
O2

28

Step 2: Determine velocity of A with respect to O2.

Vb = 2 x O2A
Vb = 1 x 50.8 = 50.8 mm/sec.
Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram, locate zero velocity points O2O6.
d
Vd

a
Udb
b

O2O6

o From O2, O6 draw a line r to O2A in the direction of rotation equal to 50.8
mm/sec.
o From a draw a line r to Ac and from O2, O6 draw a line along the line of
stocks of c to intersect the previously drawn line at c.
o Mark point b on vector ac such that ab

ab
x AB
AC

o From b draw a line r to BD and from O2, O6 draw a line r to O6D to

intersect at d.

Step 4:

Vd = O 6 d = 32 mm/sec
bd =

bd
=
BD

Vc = O 2 C =
ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS FOR PRACTICE

Problem 1: In a slider crank mechanism shown in offset by a perpendicular

distance of 50 mm from the centre C. AB and BC are 750 mm and 200 mm long
respectively crank BC is rotating e at a uniform speed of 200 rpm. Draw the
velocity vector diagram and determine velocity of slider A and angular velocity of
link AB.

29

B
A
50 mm
C

Problem 2: For the mechanism shown in figure determine the velocities at points
C, E and F and the angular velocities of links, BC, CDE and EF.

All dimensions are in mm

120

B
100

100 60
rpm
120o

150
F

120

50

The crank op of a crank and slotted lever mechanism shown in figure rotates at
100 rpm in the CCW direction. Various lengths of the links are OP = 90 mm, OA
= 300 mm, AR = 480 mm and RS = 330 mm. The slider moves along an axis
perpendicular to r AO and in 120 mm from O. Determine the velocity of the
slider when | AOP is 135o and also mention the maximum velocity of slider.

45o

O
C

D
A

30

Problem 4: Find the velocity of link 4 of the scotch yoke mechanism shown in
figure. The angular speed of link 2 is 200 rad/sec CCW, link O 2P = 40 mm.

P
3
2
Q on link 4
45o

Problem 5: In the mechanism shown in figure link AB rotates uniformly in C

direction at 240 rpm. Determine the linear velocity of B and angular velocity of
EF.
E

AB = 160 mm
BC = 160 mm
CD = 100 mm

45

AD = 200 mm
EF = 200 mm

100 mm

CE = 40 mm

31

II Method
Instantaneous Method
To explain instantaneous centre let us consider a plane body P having a nonlinear motion relative to another body q consider two points A and B on body P
having velocities as Va and Vb respectively in the direction shown.

A
I

Va
B V
b
P
q
Fig. 1

If a line is drawn r to Va, at A the body can be imagined to rotate about some
point on the line. Thirdly, centre of rotation of the body also lies on a line r to the
direction of Vb at B. If the intersection of the two lines is at I, the body P will be
rotating about I at that instant. The point I is known as the instantaneous centre of
rotation for the body P. The position of instantaneous centre changes with the motion
of the body.

Va

P
Vb
q

I
Fig. 2

In case of the r lines drawn from A and B meet outside the body P as shown in Fig 2.

Va
Vb

I at
Fig. 3
If the direction of Va and Vb are parallel to the r at A and B met at . This is the
case when the body has linear motion.

32

Number of Instantaneous Centers

The number of instantaneous centers in a mechanism depends upon number of

links. If N is the number of instantaneous centers and n is the number of links.
N=

n n 1
2

Types of Instantaneous Centers

There are three types of instantaneous centers namely fixed, permanent and
neither fixed nor permanent.
Example: Four bar mechanism.
N=

n = 4.

n n 1 44 1
=
6
2
2

I13

I34
3
I23
4
2
I24
I12

I14

Fixed instantaneous center I12, I14

Permanent instantaneous center I23, I34
Neither fixed nor permanent instantaneous center I13, I24

Arnold Kennedy theorem of three centers:

Statement: If three bodies have motion relative to each other, their instantaneous
centers should lie in a straight line.

33

Proof:
1

I12

VA3

VA2

I13

2
3

I23
A

Consider a three link mechanism with link 1 being fixed link 2 rotating about
I12 and link 3 rotating about I13. Hence, I12 and I13 are the instantaneous centers for
link 2 and link 3. Let us assume that instantaneous center of link 2 and 3 be at point A
i.e. I23. Point A is a coincident point on link 2 and link 3.
Considering A on link 2, velocity of A with respect to I12 will be a vector VA2
r to link A I12. Similarly for point A on link 3, velocity of A with respect to I13 will
be r to A I13. It is seen that velocity vector of VA2 and VA3 are in different directions
which is impossible. Hence, the instantaneous center of the two links cannot be at the
assumed position.
It can be seen that when I23 lies on the line joining I12 and I13 the VA2 and VA3
will be same in magnitude and direction. Hence, for the three links to be in relative
motion all the three centers should lie in a same straight line. Hence, the proof.
Steps to locate instantaneous centers:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.
Step 2: Identify the number of instantaneous centers by using the relation
n 1n .
N=
2
Step 3: Identify the instantaneous centers by circle diagram.
Step 4: Locate all the instantaneous centers by making use of Kennedys theorem.
To illustrate the procedure let us consider an example.

34

A slider crank mechanism has lengths of crank and connecting rod equal to
200 mm and 200 mm respectively locate all the instantaneous centers of the
mechanism for the position of the crank when it has turned through 30 o from IOC.
Also find velocity of slider and angular velocity of connecting rod if crank rotates at
40 rad/sec.
Step 1: Draw configuration diagram to a suitable scale.
Step 2: Determine the number of links in the mechanism and find number of
instantaneous centers.
N=

n 1n
2

n = 4 links

N=

44 1
=6
2

I13

I24
A
2

200
I12

30

I23

800

O 1

I14 to

I12

I14 to

Step 3: Identify instantaneous centers.

o Suit it is a 4-bar link the resulting figure will be a square.
1

I12

2
1

I24

I12
I41

I23

OR

I13
4

I34

3
I23

I13

4
I34

I24
I14

o Locate fixed and permanent instantaneous centers. To locate neither fixed nor
permanent instantaneous centers use Kennedys three centers theorem.

35

Step 4: Velocity of different points.

Va = 2 AI12 = 40 x 0.2 = 8 m/s
also Va = 2 x A13
3 =

Va
AI13

Vb = 3 x BI13 = Velocity of slider.

Problem 2:

A four bar mechanisms has links AB = 300 mm, BC = CD = 360 mm and AD

= 600 mm. Angle | BAD 60 o . Crank AB rotates in C direction at a speed of 100
rpm. Locate all the instantaneous centers and determine the angular velocity of link
BC.

Solution:

Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram to a suitable scale.

Step 2: Find the number of Instantaneous centers
N=

n 1n
2

44 1
=6
2

Step 3: Identify the ICs by circular method or book keeping method.

1

I12

2
I12

I14

1
I23

OR

I12

3
I23

I13

I13

4
I34

I24
I14

I34

Step 4: Locate all the visible ICs and locate other ICs by Kennedys theorem.

36

I13

I34

B
I23

2
I24

I12

I14

A
Vb = 2 x BI12 =
Also

2 x 100
x 0.3 m / sec
60

Vb = 3 x BI13
Vb
rad / sec
BI13

3 =

For a mechanism in figure crank OA rotates at 100 rpm clockwise using I.C.
method determine the linear velocities of points B, C, D and angular velocities of
links AB, BC and CD.
OA = 20 cm

AB = 150 cm

BC = 60 cm

CD = 50 cm

BE = 40 cm

OE = 135 cm
C

A
2
30o

10 mm
4
B

Va = OA x OA
Va =

2 x 100
x 0 .2 2 .1 m / s
60

n = 6 links
N=

n n 1
15
2

37

12

23
13

4
34

24
14

5
45

35
25

15

5
4
3
2
1
--15
---

6
56

46
36

26
16

I16 @

I16 @

I16 @

I13

I45
5

I23
2

I14

6
I56

I12
I34

Link 3

I15

I13

3
B

Va = 3AI13
3 =

Va
2.5 rad / sec
AI13

Vb = 3 x BI13 = 2.675 m/s

38

Link 4

I14
4
B
Also

Vb = 4 x BI14
4 =

Vb
6.37 rad / sec
BI14

VC = 4 x CI14 = 1.273 m/s

Link 5

I15
VC = 5 x CI15
5 =

Answers
Vb = 2.675 m/s
VC = 1.273 m/s
Vd = 0.826 m/s
ab = 2.5 rad/sec
bc = 6.37 rad/sec
cd = 1.72 rad/sec

VC
1.72 rad / sec
AI15

Vd = 5 x DI15 = 0.826 m/s

In the toggle mechanism shown in figure the slider D is constrained to move in a

horizontal path the crank OA is rotating in CCW direction at a speed of 180 rpm
the dimensions of various links are as follows:
OA = 180 mm

CB = 240 mm

AB = 360 mm

BD = 540 mm

Find,
i)

Velocity of slider

ii)

Angular velocity of links AB, CB and BD.

39

45o
O

360

B
105

D
C
n = 6 links
N=

n n 1
15
2

2
12

23
13

34
24

14

5
45

35
25

15

5
4
3
2
1
--15
---

6
56

46
36

26
16

I16 @

I16 @
I15

I23

2
I12

I46

I16 @

3
O

I13

I45
B I35
4

I34

C
6
I56

I24

40

Va = 2 x AI12 = 3.4 m/s

A

Link 3

3
I13
B
Va = 3 x AI13
3 =

Va
2.44 rad / sec
AI13

Vb = 3 x BI13
Link 4

B
4
C

I14

Vb = 4 x BI14
4 =

Vb
11.875 rad / sec
AI14

Link 5

I15

B
5
D
Vb = 5 x BI15
5 =

Answers
Vd = 2 m/s
ab = 2.44 rad/sec
bc = 11.875 rad/sec
cd = 4.37 rad/sec

Vb
4.37 rad / sec
AI15

Vd = 5 x DI15 = 2 m/s

41

Figure shows a six link mechanism. What will be the velocity of cutting tool D
and the angular velocities of links BC and CD if crank rotates at 10 rad/sec.
Q

25
90o

B
All dimensions
are in mm

15
15
C
45

45

60
A
15
30

I14

I13

I34

I16 @

I46
4
3
I45

I24
I23

I26
I16 @

I12

6
I56

42

I16 @

I15

Va = 2 x AI12 = 10 x 0.015
Va = 2 x AI12 = 0.15 m/s
I13

Link 3

A
Va = 3 x AI13
3 =

Va
AI13

Vb = 3 x BI13
Q

Link 4

I14

B
4

C
Vb = 4 x BI14
4 =

Vb
4.25 rad / sec
BI14

VC = 4 x CI14
Link 5

I15
Answers

VC = 5 x CI15
5 =

Vd = 1.66 m/s

VC
1.98 rad / sec
AI15

bc = 4.25 rad/sec
cd = 1.98 rad/sec

Vd = 5 x DI15 = 1.66 m/s

43

A whitworth quick return mechanism shown in figure has a fixed link OA and
crank OP having length 200 mm and 350 mm respectively. Other lengths are AR
= 200 mm and RS = 40 mm. Find the velocity of the rotation using IC method
when crank makes an angle of 120o with fixed link and rotates at 10 rad/sec.
R
5
S
6

A
4
1

P
O

B
Locate the ICs
n = 6 links
N=

n n 1
15
2

2
12

3
23

13

4
34

24
14

5
45

35
25

15

6
56

46
36

26
16

44

5
4
3
2
1
--15
---

I15

I16 @
I46

I45
6

5
I14

I56
1

I12
2

I23
3
I34

I24

VP = 2 x OP = m/s

Acceleration Analysis

Rate of change of velocity is acceleration. A change in velocity requires any

one of the following conditions to be fulfilled:
o Change in magnitude only
o Change in direction only
o Change in both magnitude and direction
When the velocity of a particle changes in magnitude and direction it has two
component of acceleration.
1. Radial or centripetal acceleration
fc = 2r
Acceleration is parallel to the link and acting towards centre.

45

Va
A

O1

Va cos

ft oa

oa

fcoa

Va sin

Va

f oa
a1

Va = ( + t) r
Velocity of A parallel to OA = 0
Velocity of A parallel to OA = Va sin
Therefore change in velocity = Va sin 0
Centripetal acceleration = fc =

t r sin
t

as t tends to Zero sin tends to

r rt
t

fc = r (d/ dt) =2r

But V = r or = V/r
Hence, fc =2r = V2/r
2. Tnagential Acceleration:
Va = ( + t) r
Velocity of A perpendicular to OA = Va
Velocity of A perpendicular to OA = Va cos
Therefore change in velocity = Va cos Va
Tnagnetial acceleration = ft =

t r cos r
t

as t tends to Zero cos tends to 1

46

r rt r
t

ft = r
Example:
B

fCab = 2AB
Acts parallel to BA and acts from B to A.
frab
fab
ftab

ft = BA acts r to link.
fBA = frBA + ftBA

Problem 1: Four bar mechanism. For a 4-bar mechanism shown in figure draw
velocity and acceleration diagram.
All dimensions
are in mm

C
66
B
50

= 10.5 rad/sec

56

60o
A

D
100

47

Solution:

Step 1: Draw configuration diagram to a scale.

Step 2: Draw velocity vector diagram to a scale.
Vb = 2 x AB
Vb = 10.5 x 0.05
Vb = 0.525 m/s
Vc

a1d
Vbc
b
Step 3: Prepare a table as shown below:
Sl.
No.
1.

Link

Magnitude
fc = 2ABr

AB

Direction

Sense

Parallel to AB

Parallel to BC

fc = (10.5)2/0.525
fc = 5.51 m/s2
2.

fc = 2BCr

BC

f = 1.75

3.

CD

ft = r

r to BC

fc = 2CDr

Parallel to DC

fc = 2.75
r to DC

ft = ?

Step 4: Draw the acceleration diagram.

11el to CD

a1d1
11el to CD

to BC

c1

c1

fbc
b1

b1

11el to BC

48

11el to AB

o Choose a suitable scale to draw acceleration diagram.

o Mark the zero acceleration point a1d1.
o Link AB has only centripetal acceleration. Therefore, draw a line parallel to
AB and toward A from a1d1 equal to 5.51 m/s2 i.e. point b1.
o From b1 draw a vector parallel to BC points towards B equal to 1.75 m/s2
(b11).
o From b11 draw a line r to BC. The magnitude is not known.
o From a1d1 draw a vector parallel to AD and pointing towards D equal to 2.72
m/s2 i.e. point c1.
o From c11 draw a line r to CD to intersect the line drawn r to BC at c1,

d1c1 = fCD and b1c1 = fbc.

To determine angular acceleration.
BC =

t
f bc
c b1
1 1 34.09 rad / sec (CCW )
BC
BC

CD =

t
f cd
c c1
1 1 79.11 rad / sec (CCW )
CD
CD

Problem 2: For the configuration of slider crank mechanism shown in figure

below.

Calculate
i) Acceleration of slider B.
ii) Acceleration of point E.
iii) Angular acceleration of link AB.
If crank OA rotates at 20 rad/sec CCW.

Solution:
E

450

All dimensions
are mm

A
1600

480

60o

49

Step 1: Draw configuration diagram.

Step 2: Find velocity of A with respect to O.
Va = OA x OA
Va = 20 x 0.48
Va = 9.6 m/s
Step 4: Draw velocity vector diagram.
e
a
5.25
b

O1g

9.7

Step 4:
Sl.
No.

Link

Magnitude

Direction

Sense

1.

OA

fcaO = 2OAr = 192

Parallel to OA

2.

AB

fcab = 2abr = 17.2

Parallel to AB

ftab

r to AB

Parallel to Slider

3.

Slider B

Step 5: Draw the acceleration diagram choosing a suitable scale.

fb
fab

o1g1

ftab

b1 1
fcab

192
172

a1
e1

ee1

50

o Mark o1g1 (zero acceleration point)

o Draw o1g1 = C acceleration of OA towards O.
o From a1 draw a1b11 = 17.2 m/s2 towards A from b11 draw a line r to AB.
o From o1g1 draw a line along the slider B to intersect previously drawn line at
b1, a 1 b1 f ab

g 1 b1 = fb = 72 m/s2.
o Extend a 1 b1 = a 1e1 such that

a 1 b1 A 1 R 1
.

AB
AE

o Join e1 to 1g1, g 1e1 = fe = 236 m/s2.

o ab =

f abt
bb
167
= 104 rad/sec2 (CCW).
1 1
AB
AB
1.6

Answers:
fb = 72 m/sec2
fe = 236 m/sec2
ab = 104 rad/sec2

Problem 3: In a toggle mechanism shown in figure the crank OA rotates at 210

rpm CCW increasing at the rate of 60 rad/s2.
Velocity of slider D and angular velocity of link BD.
Acceleration of slider D and angular acceleration of link BD.

150

200
45o

400

300

500

Step 1 Draw the configuration diagram to a scale.

51

Step 2 Find
Va = OA x OA
Va =

2 210
x 0.2 = 4.4 m/s
60

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram.

a

o1,q,g

Step 4:
Sl.
No.
1.

Link
AO

2.
AB
3.

4.
5.

BQ
BD
Slider D

Magnitude m/s2

Direction

Sense

fcaO = 2r = 96.8

Parallel to OA

ftaO = r = 12

r to OA

fcab = 2r = 5.93

Parallel to AB

ftab = r =

r to AB

fcbq = 2r = 38.3

Parallel to BQ

ftbq = r =

r to BQ

fcbd = 2r = 20

r to BD

ftbd = r =

r to BD

Parallel to slider motion

Step 5: Draw the acceleration diagram choosing a suitable scale.

o Mark zero acceleration point.

52

fbd
d1

fd

O1q1g1

q1 1
fab
b1 1
a1

d1 1
OA

b1

ftOA

a11
o Draw o1a11 = fcOA and a11a = ftOA r to OA from
o

o1a1 = fa

o From a1 draw a 1 b1 f c ab , from b11 draw a line r to AB.

o From o1q1g1 draw o1q11 = fcbq and from q11 draw a line a line r to BQ to
intersect the previously drawn line at b1

q 1 b1 f bq

a 1 b1 = fab

o From b1 draw a line parallel to BD = fcbd such that b1d 11 = fcbd.

o From d11 draw a line r to BD, from o1q1g1 draw a line along slider D to meet
the previously drawn line at .
o

g 1d 1 f d = 16.4 m/sec2.

b1d 1 f bd = 5.46 m/sec2.

o BD =

f bd
5.46

109.2 rad / sec 2

BD
0 .5

Answers:
Vd = 2.54 m/s
bd = 6.32 rad/s
Fd = 16.4 m/s2
bd = 109.2 rad/s2

53

Coriolis Acceleration: It has been seen that the acceleration of a body may have
two components.
Centripetal acceleration and
Tangential acceleration.

However, in same cases there will be a third component called as corilis

acceleration to illustrate this let us take an example of crank and slotted lever
mechanisms.
P
2

P1

B1

B2

B on link 3

3
A on link 2

A1
2

O
Assume link 2 having constant angular velocity 2, in its motions from OP to
OP1 in a small interval of time t. During this time slider 3 moves outwards from
position B to B2. Assume this motion also to have constant velocity V B/A. Consider
the motion of slider from B to B2 in 3 stages.
1. B to A1 due to rotation of link 2.
2. A1 to B1 due to outward velocity of slider VB/A.
3. B1 to B2 due to acceleration r to link 2 this component in the coriolis
component of acceleration.
We have Arc B1B2 = Arc QB2 Arc QB1
= Arc QB2 Arc AA1
Arc B1B2 = OQ d - AO d
= A1B1 d
= VB/A 2dt2

54

The tangential component of velocity is r to the link and is given by Vt = r.

In this case has been assumed constant and the slider is moving on the link with
constant velocity. Therefore, tangential velocity of any point B on the slider 3 will
result in uniform increase in tangential velocity. The equation Vt = r remain same
but r increases uniformly i.e. there is a constant acceleration r to rod.
Displacement B1B2 = at2
= f (dt)2
f (dt)2 = VB/A 2 dt2
fcrB/A = 22 VB/A coriolis acceleration
The direction of coriolis component is the direction of relative velocity vector
for the two coincident points rotated at 90o in the direction of angular velocity of
rotation of the link.
Figure below shows the direction of coriolis acceleration in different situation.
fcr

2
2

fcr
(a) Rotation CW slider
moving up

(b) Rotation CW slider

moving down
fcr

fcr
(c) Rotation CCW slider
moving up

(d) Rotation CCW slider

moving down

55

A quick return mechanism of crank and slotted lever type shaping

machine is shown in Fig. the dimensions of various links are as
follows.
O1O2 = 800 mm, O1B = 300 mm, O2D = 1300 mm and DR = 400 mm
The crank O1B makes an angle of 45o with the vertical and rotates at
40 rpm in the CCW direction. Find:
iii)

Acceleration of the Ram R, velocity of cutting tool, and

iv)

Angular Acceleration of link AD.

Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.

R
Tool

200
D

B on orank, A B
C on AD

O
2

A
A

Step 2: Determine velocity of point B.

56

B
45o

Vb = OB x OB
OB =

2NO1B 2 x 40

4.18 rad / sec

60
60

Vb = 4.18 x 0.3 = 1.254 m/sec

Step 3: Draw velocity vector diagram.
Choose a suitable scale 1 cm = 0.3 m/sec
b
d
c
o.a

Step 4: prepare table showing the acceleration components

Sl.
No.
1.

Link
OB

2.

AC

3.

BC

4.

DR

5.

Slider R

Magnitude m/s2

Direction

Sense

fcob = 2r =5.24

Parallel to OB

fcac = 2r
ftac = r
fsbc =r
fccbc = 2v =
fcbd = 2r = 20
ftbd = r

Parallel to AB
r to AB
Parallel to AB
r to AC

Parallel to DR
r to BD

D
_

ftbd = r

Parallel to slider motion

57

r1

fr
o1a1

f dr
b1

fcob

fad
ftab

d1
f

b1

dr

r1
fob
b1

fsab
fccbc
b1

Acceleration of Ram = fr = o1 r
Angular Acceleration of link AD
bd =

f bd
BD

KLENINS Construction
This method helps us to draw the velocity and acceleration diagrams on
the construction diagram itself. The crank of the configuration diagram
represents the velocity and acceleration line of the moving end (crank).

The procedure is given below for a slider crank mechanism.

58

800

200
45

To draw the velocity vector diagram:

Link OA represents the velocity vector of A with respect to O.
Voa = oa = r = OA.
b
o

b
a
200

800
a

45
o

Draw a line perpendicular at O, extend the line BA to meet this

perpendicular line at b. oab is the velocity vector diagram rotated through
90 opposite to the rotation of the crank.
Acceleration diagram:
The line representing Crank OA represents the acceleration of A with
respect to O. To draw the acceleration diagram follow the steps given
below.
Draw a circle with OA as radius and A as centre.
Draw another circle with AB as diameter.
The two circles intersect each other at two points C and D.
Join C and D to meet OB at b1 and AB at E.
O1,a1,ba1and b1 is the required acceleration diagram rotated through 180.

59

fb

O1

b1
ftab

fab

fa

ba1
fcab
a1

ba1

200

800
45
B

O1

b1

60