Computer programme and Genetic algorithm is used in analysis and synthesis of a planar four-bar mechanism. Link dimensions were varied to obtain coupler path maps. Position, velocity, acceleration and the force at the coupler point at various input angles were obtained and the designed path is utilized in the working models. Plot of variation of the link angles, variation of velocity and acceleration of the coupler point with the crank angle is obtained. It is found that ratio of velocity of crank and coupler point varies between 4.48 and 0.38, acceleration of the coupler point is maximum. The four bar mechanism can be used to transfer small jobs at regular interval of time. With addition of another four bar mechanism with this, a papad making machine is shown as an useful application.
coupler curves, coupler point, Grashof's law, four bar mechanism
