We have already discussed that the kinematic chain is a combination of four or more kinematic pairs, such that the relative motion between the links or elements is completely constrained.The simplest and the basic kinematic chain is a four bar chain or quadric cycle chain, as shown in Fig. 1.1
Fig. 1.1. Four bar chain
It consists of four links, each of them forms a turning pair at A, B, C and D. The four links may be of different lengths. According to Grashof ’s law for a four bar mechanism, the sum of the shortest and longest link lengths should not be greater than the sum of the remaining two link lengths if there is to be continuous relative motion between the two links.
A very important consideration in designing a mechanism is to ensure that the input crank makes a complete revolution relative to the other links. The mechanism in which no link makes a complete revolution will not be useful. In a four bar chain, one of the links, in particular the shortest link, will make a complete revolution relative to the other three links, if it satisfies the Grashof ’s law. Such a link is known as crank or driver. In Fig. 1.1, AD (link 4 ) is a crank. The link BC (link 2) which makes a partial rotation or oscillates is known as lever or rocker or follower and the link CD (link 3) which connects the crank and lever is called connecting rod or coupler. The fixed link AB (link 1) is known as frame of the mechanism. When the crank (link 4) is the driver, the mechanism is transforming rotary motion into oscillating motion.
