How do I constrain a cam follower mechanism?

[jessepranger]

I tried all the constrains but because its not a circle it is pretty difficult do to so. Also to mention (outside) tangent doesnt work good. It does the downwards motion but then randomly jumps upwards . Any help would be appreciated

[mluterman · Accepted solution]

you might want to check out this link:

https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/inventor-forum/cam-follower-movement/td-p/9576505

[SBix26 · Accepted solution]

Transitional constraint is the answer, but I think you need to add a bit of radius to the tip of your follower.  A perfectly sharp point is not practical anyway, so you might as well make your model more realistic and more functional.

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Sam B

Inventor Pro 2025.1.2 | Windows 11 Home 23H2

[johnsonshiue · Accepted solution]

Hi! In assembly environment (without using Dynamic Simulation), this movement has to be done by using Transitional constraint. There are techniques to make it work more smoothly. Please share the files here. The forum experts can help take a look.

Many thanks!

[jessepranger]

Ye it was just a simple mock up, but thanks it works!

[jessepranger]

Correct!

[jessepranger]

No need, transitional constrain worked right away, tysm