A worm-driven cam gradually loads a spring follower and then allows it to release. The calculator compares spring force and stored energy between an entered preload and maximum deflection.
Worm-gear Jumping Motion with Cam Interactive Calculator
Enter spring rate, maximum deflection, preload percentage and detent force. Compare ideal spring forces, the stored-energy difference and the peak-force-to-detent-force ratio.
Equation Used
- Inputs are user-supplied scenario values.
- The displayed equations are evaluated directly.
- Entered efficiencies, shares, limits and factors are not predicted.
- The visual is schematic and not dimensional.
- Strength, fatigue, wear, variation, controls and safety compliance are omitted unless explicitly calculated.
How the Worm-gear Jumping Motion with Cam Works
The schematic shows gradual spring loading followed by a release region. The animation explains the sequence; the calculator does not solve follower acceleration, cam contact or the speed of the release.
What This Calculator Represents
The spring is assumed linear. Stored-energy difference is not delivered impact energy. The calculation omits contact geometry, friction, moving mass, damping, strength and fatigue; a force ratio does not prove reliable release.
Calculation Method
Preload deflection = maximum deflection × preload percentage / 100. Spring force = spring rate × deflection. Energy difference = ½ × spring rate × (maximum deflection² − preload deflection²). Detent ratio = peak spring force / entered detent force, for a positive detent force.
How to Read the Result
Change one input at a time to compare its effect. Apply the assumptions stated beside the equations when interpreting each result.
Assumptions and Limits
The spring is assumed linear. Stored-energy difference is not delivered impact energy. The calculation omits contact geometry, friction, moving mass, damping, strength and fatigue; a force ratio does not prove reliable release.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the energy result predict a snap speed?
No. Speed depends on moving mass, losses and contact dynamics, which are not included.
What does the preload percentage mean?
It expresses the initial spring deflection as a percentage of the maximum deflection. The energy result compares those two spring positions.
Is the drawing suitable for manufacturing?
No. It is a schematic explanation and does not specify manufacturing dimensions, tolerances or materials.
Can these results establish a safe working load?
No. Strength, fatigue, wear, operating conditions and the complete assembly must be assessed separately.
References
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