Optimal kinematic design of a link-drive mechanism with prescribed velocity characteristics

The paper presents an example of a link-drive mechanism for a deep drawing mechanical press. Because of its characteristics such a drive is much more appropriate than conventional crankshaft or eccentric drive. The existing design of the drive has proved unsatisfactory and does not meet all the demands and constraints, which are ideal for deep drawing process. Optimization of the drive is therefore necessary. The intention is to achieve the required velocity characteristics in a defined area of movement. Firstly, the drive is analyzed and a mathematical model is made and prepared for optimization procedure. The process is time-dependent, so it cannot be used directly in the optimization algorithm. Mathematical model is transformed intoa form suitable for the standard non-linear optimization procedure and then optimization is carried out. The method used is sequential quadratic programming. The final objective of the optimization process is to find such dimensions of link-drive members that the given requirements are satisfied in the best possible manner