Total size minimization of cam mechanisms with translating follower

Usually, the size optimization by the cam mechanisms is reduced to the cam size only, which is not completely correct because the cam is only one of the two important entities working together. The cam follower optimization is taken into account, but only as distinct part of the cam mechanism. Total size regarded as a minimization criterion is an important problem in cam mechanism synthesis. The paper shows a total size minimization of the cam mechanism, where both parts are equally considered. The mathematical generalization is developed for cam mechanisms with translating roller-follower and flatface follower.