Optimum synthesis of planar linkages to generate coupler curves

Analytical expressions have been derived for optimum synthesis of the planar four-bar coupler curve. The method leads to a set of ten simultaneous linear non-homogeneous equations. Solution of these equations yields optimum values for all independent variables in the problem. Application of the present ideas to linkages with six and more links is also outlined. Numerical experience is discussed; it is shown that, for all practical purposes, the optimum is reached after one iterative cycle.