Optimal synthesis of quick return mechanism as a path generator

The paper deals with an optimal synthesis of planar mechanisms as path generators. The technique verified in the synthesis of four bar linkages and crank slider mechanisms was successfully applied to a quick return mechanism with prismatic joints. The main idea of the method consists in decreasing the number of the design parameters. The problem was formulated as an optimisation task. The mathematical foundations were presented. An objective function was constructed and minimised in searching for generators of test paths using an evolutionary algorithm. The exemplary solutions were presented and discussed.