Velocity And Acceleration

 Introduction
Kinematics deals with study of relative motion between the various parts of the machines.
Kinematics does not involve study of forces. Thus motion leads study of displacement, velocity
and acceleration of a part of the machine.
Study of Motions of various parts of a machine is important for determining their velocities and
accelerations at different moments.
As dynamic forces are a function of acceleration and acceleration is a function of velocities,
study of velocity and acceleration will be useful in the design of mechanism of a machine. The
mechanism will be represented by a line diagram which is known as configuration diagram. The
analysis can be carried out both by graphical method as well as analytical method.

 Some important Definitions

Displacement: All particles of a body move in parallel planes and travel by same distance is
known, linear displacement and is denoted by ‘x’.
A body rotating about a fired point in such a way that all particular move in circular path
angular displacement and is denoted by ‘’.

Velocity: Rate of change of displacement is velocity. Velocity can be linear velocity of

angular velocity.
dx
Linear velocity is Rate of change of linear displacement= V =
dt
d
Angular velocity is Rate of change of angular displacement =  =
dt

Relation between linear velocity and angular velocity.

x = r
dx d
= r
dt dt
V = r
d
=
dt
Acceleration: Rate of change of velocity
dv d 2 x
f=  2 Linear Acceleration (Rate of change of linear velocity)
dt dt
 d d 2
Thirdly  =  2 Angular Acceleration (Rate of change of angular velocity)
dt dt

We also have,
Absolute velocity: Velocity of a point with respect to a fixed point (zero velocity point).

2

O2

Va = 2 x r
Va = 2 x O2 A

Ex: Vao 2 is absolute velocity.

Relative velocity: Velocity of a point with respect to another point ‘x’

B
3
A
4
2

O2 O4

Ex: Vba  Velocity of point B with respect to A

Note: Capital letters are used for configuration diagram. Small letters are used for velocity
vector diagram.

This is absolute velocity

 Velocity of point A with respect to O2 fixed point, zero velocity point.

B
3
A
 Vba = or Vab
Vba = or Vab Equal in magnitude but opposite in direction.

O4

Vb  Absolute velocity is velocity of B with respect to O4 (fixed point, zero velocity point)

b
Vba

Vb
O2, O4

Vab
a

Velocity vector diagram

Vector O 2 a = Va= Absolute velocity

Vector ab = Vab
Relative velocity
ba = Va

Vab is equal magnitude with Vba but is apposite in direction.

Vector O 4 b = Vb absolute velocity.

To illustrate the difference between absolute velocity and relative velocity. Let, us
consider a simple situation.
A link AB moving in a vertical plane such that the link is inclined at 30o to the horizontal
with point A is moving horizontally at 4 m/s and point B moving vertically upwards. Find
velocity of B.
Va = 4 m/s ab Absolute velocity Horizontal direction
(known in magnitude and directors)
Vb = ? ab Absolute velocity Vertical direction
(known in directors only)

Va a
O
4 m/s Vab
A
30o
Vb
C
B

Vba

Velocity of B with respect to A is equal in magnitude to velocity of A with respect to B

but opposite in direction.

 Relative Velocity Equation

y Rigid body

ya R
O 
O4 x
xA

Fig. 1 Point O is fixed and End A is a point on rigid body.

Rotation of a rigid link about a fixed centre.

Consider rigid link rotating about a fixed centre O, as shown in figure. The distance
between O and A is R and OA makes and angle ‘’ with x-axis next link
xA = R cos , yA = R sin .
 Differentiating xA with respect to time gives velocity.

d xA dθ
 R  sin θ
dt dt
= - R sin 

dy A dθ
Similarly,  R  cos θ 
dt dt
= - R cos 

d xA d yA
Let,  VAx  VAy
dt dt
dθ
= = angular velocity of OA
dt

 VAx = - Rω sin 
VAy = - Rω cos 

 Total velocity of point A is given by

VA =  R sin  2   R cos θ 2
VA = Rω

 Relative Velocity Equation of Two Points on a Rigid link

 Rigid body

B
yB

R sin 

yA A

R cos 
xA xB x

Fig. 2 Points A and B are located on rigid body

From Fig. 2
xB = xA + R cos  yB = yA + R sin 

Differentiating xB and yB with respect to time

we get,
d xB d dθ
 VBx  xA  R  sin θ
dt dt dt
d xA
  R sin θ  VAx  R sin 
dt

d yB d yA dθ
Similarly,  VBy   R cos θ 
dt dt dt
d yA
  R cos θ  VAy  R cos θ
dt

VA = VAx VAy = Total velocity of point A

Similarly, VB = VBx VBy = Total velocity of point B
= VAx (Rω sin ) VAy Rω cos 

= ( VAx VAy ) (Rω sin  + R ωcos )

 = ( VAx VAy ) VA Similarly, ( R ωsin  + Rω cos ) = Rω
VB = VA Rω = VA VBA
VBA = VB – VA

Velocity analysis of any mechanism can be carried out by various methods.

1. By graphical method
2. By relative velocity method
3. By instantaneous method

 By Graphical Method
The following points are to be considered while solving problems by this method.
1. Draw the configuration design to a suitable scale.
2. Locate all fixed point in a mechanism as a common point in velocity diagram.
3. Choose a suitable scale for the vector diagram velocity.
4. The velocity vector of each rotating link is r to the link.
5. Velocity of each link in mechanism has both magnitude and direction. Start from a point
whose magnitude and direction is known.
6. The points of the velocity diagram are indicated by small letters.

To explain the method let us take a few specific examples.

1. Four – Bar Mechanism: In a four bar chain ABCD link AD is fixed and in 15 cm long. The
crank AB is 4 cm long rotates at 180 rpm (cw) while link CD rotates about D is 8 cm long
BC = AD and | BAD = 60 o. Find angular velocity of link CD.
 C
15 cm
B
8 cm
ωBA
60o
A D
15 cm
Configuration Diagram

Velocity vector diagram

2πx 120
Vb = r = ba x AB = x 4 = 50.24 cm/sec
60

Choose a suitable scale

1 cm = 20 m/s = ab

c
r to CD V cb

a, d
r to BC

r to AB

Vcb = bc
Vc = dc = 38 cm/sec = Vcd

We know that V =ω R
Vcd = CD x CD
Vcd 38
ωcD =   4.75 rad/sec (cw)
CD 8

2. Slider Crank Mechanism:

 In a crank and slotted lever mechanism crank rotates of 300 rpm in a counter clockwise
direction. Find
(i) Angular velocity of connecting rod and
(ii) Velocity of slider.

A
60 mm 150 mm

45o
B

Configuration diagram

Step 1: Determine the magnitude and velocity of point A with respect to 0,

2π x 300
VA = O1A x O2A = x 60
60
= 600  mm/sec

Step 2: Choose a suitable scale to draw velocity vector diagram.

a Va

r to AB r to OA

b
O
Along sides B

Velocity vector diagram

Vab = ab =1300mm/sec
Vba 1300
ba =   8.66 rad/sec
BA 150

Vb = ob velocity of slider

Note: Velocity of slider is along the line of sliding.

3. Shaper Mechanism:
In a crank and slotted lever mechanisms crank O2A rotates at  rad/sec in CCW
direction. Determine the velocity of slider.
6
D Scale 1 cm = ……x…. m
5

ω 3
O2 B
2

O1

Configuration diagram

Scale 1 cm = ……x…. m/s a

VAO2 = VA
c VBA
b
VBO1
VDC
d O1O2

Velocity vector diagram

Va = 2 x O2A

O1 b O1c

O1 B O1 C
To locate point C
O C
 O1c  O1 b  1 
 O1 B 
To Determine Velocity of Rubbing
Two links of a mechanism having turning point will be connected by pins. When the
links are motion they rub against pin surface. The velocity of rubbing of pins depends on the
angular velocity of links relative to each other as well as direction.

For example: In a four bar mechanism we have pins at points A, B, C and D.

 Vra = ab x ratios of pin A (rpa)

+ sign is used  ab is CW and Wbc is CCW i.e. when angular velocities are in opposite
directions use + sign when angular velocities are in some directions use -ve sign.
Vrb = (ab + bc) radius rpb
VrC = (bc + cd) radius rpc
VrD = cd rpd

Problems on velocity by velocity vector method (Graphical solutions)

Problem 1:
In a four bar mechanism, the dimensions of the links are as given below:
AB = 50 mm, BC = 66 mm
CD = 56 mm and AD = 100 mm

At a given instant when | DAB  60 o the angular velocity of link AB is 10.5 rad/sec in
CCW direction.

Determine,
i) Velocity of point C
ii) Velocity of point E on link BC when BE = 40 mm
 iii) The angular velocity of link BC and CD
iv) The velocity of an offset point F on link BC, if BF = 45 mm, CF = 30 mm and
BCF is read clockwise.
v) The velocity of an offset point G on link CD, if CG = 24 mm, DG = 44 mm
and DCG is read clockwise.
vi) The velocity of rubbing of pins A, B, C and D. The ratio of the pins are 30
mm, 40 mm, 25 mm and 35 mm respectively.

Solution:
Step -1: Construct the configuration diagram selecting a suitable scale.
Scale: 1 cm = 20 mm
C

G
B

60o
A D

Step – 2: Given the angular velocity of link AB and its direction of rotation determine velocity of
point with respect to A (A is fixed hence, it is zero velocity point).
Vba = BA x BA
= 10.5 x 0.05 = 0.525 m/s
Step – 3: To draw velocity vector diagram choose a suitable scale, say 1 cm = 0.2 m/s.
 First locate zero velocity points.
 Draw a line r to link AB in the direction of rotation of link AB (CCW) equal to 0.525
m/s.

Vba = 0.525 m/s

e, g

a, d
f
C Ved
  From b draw a line r to BC and from d. Draw d line r to CD to interest at C.
 Vcb is given vector bc Vbc = 0.44 m/s
 Vcd is given vector dc Vcd = 0.39 m/s

Step – 4: To determine velocity of point E (Absolute velocity) on link BC, first locate the
position of point E on velocity vector diagram. This can be done by taking corresponding ratios
of lengths of links to vector distance i.e.
be BE

bc BC

BE 0.04
 be = x Vcb = x 0.44 = 0.24 m/s
BC 0.066

Join e on velocity vector diagram to zero velocity points a, d / vector de = Ve = 0.415

m/s.

Step 5: To determine angular velocity of links BC and CD, we know Vbc and Vcd.
 Vbc =ω BC x BC
Vbc 0.44
 ωBC =   6.6 r / s . (cw)
BC 0.066
Similarly, Vcd = ωCD x CD
Vcd 0.39
 ωCD =   6.96 r / s (CCW)
CD 0.056

Step – 6: To determine velocity of an offset point F

 Draw a line r to CF from C on velocity vector diagram.
 Draw a line r to BF from b on velocity vector diagram to intersect the previously drawn
line at ‘f’.
 From the point f to zero velocity point a, d and measure vector fa to get
Vf = 0.495 m/s.

Step – 7: To determine velocity of an offset point.

 Draw a line r to GC from C on velocity vector diagram.
  Draw a line r to DG from d on velocity vector diagram to intersect previously drawn
line at g.
 Measure vector dg to get velocity of point G.

Vg = dg  0.305 m / s

Step – 8: To determine rubbing velocity at pins

 Rubbing velocity at pin A will be
Vpa = ab x r of pin A
Vpa = 10.5 x 0.03 = 0.315 m/s

 Rubbing velocity at pin B will be

Vpb = (ab + cb) x rpb of point at B.
[ab CCW and cbCW]
Vpb = (10.5 + 6.6) x 0.04 = 0.684 m/s.
 Rubbing velocity at point C will be
= 6.96 x 0.035 = 0.244 m/s

Problem 2:
In a slider crank mechanism the crank is 200 mm long and rotates at 40 rad/sec in a CCW
direction. The length of the connecting rod is 800 mm. When the crank turns through 60o from
Inner-dead centre.
Determine,
i) The velocity of the slider
ii) Velocity of point E located at a distance of 200 mm on the connecting rod extended.
iii) The position and velocity of point F on the connecting rod having the least absolute
velocity.
iv) The angular velocity of connecting rod.
v) The velocity of rubbing of pins of crank shaft, crank and cross head having pins
diameters 80,60 and 100 mm respectively.
Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram by selecting a suitable scale.
 E
A
F
45o
B
O G

Va = Woa x OA
Va = 40 x 0.2
Va = 8 m/s

Step 2: Choose a suitable scale for velocity vector diagram and draw the velocity vector diagram.
 Mark zero velocity point o, g.
 Draw oa r to link OA equal to 8 m/s

e
a Scale: 1 cm = 2 m/s

f
b o, g

 From a draw a line r to AB and from o, g draw a horizontal line (representing the line of
motion of slider B) to intersect the previously drawn line at b.

 ab give Vba=4.8 m/sec

BE
Step – 3: To mark point ‘e’ since ‘E’ is on the extension of link AB drawn be = x ab mark
AB
the point e on extension of vector ba. Join e to o, g. ge will give velocity of point E.

Ve = ge =8.4 m/sec
Step 4: To mark point F on link AB such that this has least velocity (absolute).
 Draw a line r to ab passing through o, g to cut the vector ab at f. From f to o, g. gf will
have the least absolute velocity.

 To mark the position of F on link AB.

Find BF by using the relation.

fb ab

BF AB
fb
BF  x AB =200mm
ab

Step – 5: To determine the angular velocity of connecting rod.

We know that Vab = ab x AB
Vab
 ab = = 6 rad/sec
AB

Step – 6: To determine velocity of rubbing of pins.

 Vpcrankshaft = ao x radius of crankshaft pin
= 8 x 0.08
= 0.64 m/s

 VPcrank pin = (ab + oa) rcrank pin= (6 +8)0.06 =0.84 m/sec

 VP cross head = ab x rcross head = 6 x 0.1 = 0.6 m/sec
 Problem 3: A quick return mechanism of crank and slotted lever type shaping machine is
shown in Fig. the dimensions of various links are as follows.

O1O2 = 800 mm, O1B = 300 mm, O2D = 1300 mm and DR = 400 mm

The crank O1B makes an angle of 45o with the vertical and relates at 40 rpm in the CCW
direction. Find:
i) Velocity of the Ram R, velocity of cutting tool, and
ii) Angular velocity of link O2D.

 Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.

R
R 200
Tool D
D
B on orank, O, B
B
C
O1 45o
C on O2D 2

O1

O2
O2

Step 2: Determine velocity of point B.

Vb = O1B x O1B
2 N O1B 2 x 40
O1B =   4.18 rad / sec
60 60
Vb = 4.18 x 0.3 = 1.254 m/sec
Step 3: Draw velocity vector diagram.
Choose a suitable scale 1 cm = 0.3 m/sec
b
d

r O1O2

o Draw O1b r to link O1B equal to 1.254 m/s.

o From b draw a line along the line of O2B and from O1O2 draw a line r to O2B. This

intersects at c bc will measure velocity of sliding of slider and O 2C will measure the

velocity of C on link O2C.

o Since point D is on the extension of link O2C measure O 2 d such that

O2D
O 2d = O2C . O 2 d will give velocity of point D.
O 2C

o From d draw a line r to link DR and from O1O2. Draw a line along the line of stroke

of Ram R (horizontal), These two lines will intersect at point r O 2 r will give the

velocity of Ram R.

o To determine the angular velocity of link O2D determine Vd = O 2 d .

We know that Vd = O2D x O2D.

O2 d
 O2d  r/s
O 2D
 Problem 4: Figure below shows a toggle mechanisms in which the crank OA rotates at 120
rpm. Find the velocity and acceleration of the slider D.

 Solution:
120
All the dimensions in mm

A
45o

40
190

100
135 B 120
D

Configuration Diagram

Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram choosing a suitable scal.

Step 2: Determine velocity of point A with respect to O.

Vao = OA x OA
2  x 120
Vao =  0.4  5.024 m / s
60

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram.

o Choose a suitable scale
o Mark zero velocity points O,q

o Draw vector oa r to link OA and magnitude = 5.024 m/s.

 a b

D
O,q
Velocity vector diagram
o From a draw a line r to AB and from q draw a line r to QB to intersect at b.
ab  Vba and qb  Vbq .

o Draw a line r to BD from b from q draw a line along the slide to intersect at d.

dq  Vd (slider velocity)

 Problem 5: A whitworth quick return mechanism shown in figure has the following
dimensions of the links.
The crank rotates at an angular velocity of 2.5 r/s at the moment when crank makes an
angle of 45o with vertical. Calculate
OP (crank) = 240 mm
a) the velocity of the Ram S
OA = 150 mm
b) the velocity of slider P on the slotted level
AR = 165 mm
c) the angular velocity of the link RS.
RS = 430 mm

 Solution:
Step 1: To draw configuration diagram to a suitable scale.
 R

S A

O
P on slider Q on
45o BA

B
Configuration Diagram
Step 2: To determine the absolute velocity of point P.
VP = OP x OP
2 x 240
Vao = x 0.24  0.6 m / s
60

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram by choosing a suitable scale.

0.6 m
q

S
O, a, g

r
Velocity vector diagram

o Draw op r link OP = 0.6 m.

o From O, a, g draw a line r to AP/AQ and from P draw a line along AP to intersect

previously draw, line at q. Pq = Velocity of sliding.

aq = Velocity of Q with respect to A.

Vqa = aq =

sr
o Angular velocity of link RS = RS  rad/sec
SR
 Problem 6: A toggle mechanism is shown in figure along with the diagrams of the links in
mm. find the velocities of the points B and C and the angular velocities of links AB, BQ and
BC. The crank rotates at 50 rpm in the clockwise direction.
C

Q 100

B
140
OA = 30
AB = 80
A 50 rpm
BQ = 100
BC = 100

All dimensions are in mm O

 Solution
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram to a suitable scale.
Step 2: Calculate the magnitude of velocity of A with respect to O.
Va = OA x OA
 2 x 50 
Va =   x 0.03  0.05  m / s  0.1507 m / s
 60 
 b
a

O, q c
Vector velocity diagram
Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram by choosing a suitable scale.
o Draw Oa r to link OA = 0.15 m/s
o From a draw a link r to AB and from O, q draw a link r to BQ to intersect at b.
ab  Vba  and qb  Vb  0.13 m / s

ab qb
ab =  0.74 r / s (ccw ) bq 1.3 r / s (ccw )
AB aB
o From b draw a line r to Be and from O, q these two lines intersect at C.
OC  VC  0.106 m / s

bC  VCb 

bc
BC   1.33 r / s (ccw )
BC
 Problem 7: The mechanism of a stone crusher has the dimensions as shown in figure in mm.
If crank rotates at 120 rpm CW. Find the velocity of point K when crank OA is inclined at
30o to the horizontal. What will be the torque required at the crank to overcome a horizontal
force of 40 kN at K.
 500

60o A
M
100 hz
h 2 100

200
600 K
400 600

D
360 320

B 200 C
Configuration diagram
 Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram to a suitable scale.
Step 2: Given speed of crank OA determine velocity of A with respect to ‘o’.
 2 x 120 
Va = OA x OA =   x 0.1  1.26 m / s
 60 

Vk(hz) o, q, m
d

c a

Velocity vector diagram

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram by selecting a suitable scale.
o Draw Oa r to link OA = 1.26 m/s
o From a draw a link r to AB and from q draw a link r to BQ to intersect at b.
o From b draw a line r to BC and from a, draw a line r to AC to intersect at c.
o From c draw a line r to CD and from m draw a line r to MD to intersect at d.
o From d draw a line r to KD and from m draw a line r to KM to x intersect the
previously drawn line at k.
o Since we have to determine the torque required at OA to overcome a horizontal force of
40 kN at K. Draw a the horizontal line from o, q, m and c line r to this line from k.
 T  I  T O
P P

T
V = R T=FxP F=
r
 OA TOA = Fk Vk horizontal
Fk Vk hz 
 TOA =
OA
 40000 X 0.45
T OA = = N-m
12.6
 Problem 8: In the mechanism shown in figure link OA = 320 mm, AC = 680 mm and OQ =
650 mm.
Determine,
i) The angular velocity of the cylinder
ii) The sliding velocity of the plunger
iii) The absolute velocity of the plunger

When the crank OA rotates at 20 rad/sec clockwise.

 Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.
A
B on AR (point on AR
below Q)
60o C

O R

Step 2: Draw the velocity vector diagram

o Determine velocity of point A with respect to O.
Va = OA x OA = 20 x 0.32 = 6.4 m/s
o Select a suitable scale to draw the velocity vector diagram.

o Mark the zero velocity point. Draw vector oa r to link OA equal to 6.4 m/s.
a

O, q c

b
 o From a draw a line r to AB and from o, q, draw a line perpendicular to AB.
o To mark point c on ab
ab AB
We know that 
ac AC

ab x AC
 ac  =
AB

o Mark point c on ab and joint this to zero velocity point.

o Angular velocity of cylinder will be.
Vab
ab = = 5.61 rad/sec (c)
AB
o Studying velocity of player will be
qb = 4.1 m/s

OC
o Absolute velocity of plunger = = 4.22 m/s
qc

 Problem 9: In a swiveling joint mechanism shown in figure link AB is the driving crank
which rotates at 300 rpm clockwise. The length of the various links are:
Determine, AB = 650 mm
i) The velocity of slider block S AB = 100 mm
ii) The angular velocity of link EF BC = 800 mm
iii) The velocity of link EF in the swivel block. DC = 250 mm
BE = CF
EF = 400 mm
OF = 240 mm
FS = 400 mm
 Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.
 400 F

S
O P
G

400
300
E
B

45o
A D

Step 2: Determine the velocity of point B with respect to A.

Vb = BA x BA
2 x 300
Vb = x 0.1 = 3.14 m/s
60

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram choosing a suitable scale.

o Mark zero velocity point a, d, o, g.

f
b

a, d, o, g
S
c

Velocity vector diagram

o From ‘a’ draw a line r to AB and equal to 3.14 m/s.

o From ‘b’ draw a line r to DC to intersect at C.
 o Mark a point ‘e’ on vector bc such that
BE
be  bc x
BC
o From ‘e’ draw a line r to PE and from ‘a,d’ draw a line along PE to intersect at P.
ef
o Extend the vector ep to ef such that ef  x EF
EP
o From ‘f’ draw a line r to Sf and from zero velocity point draw a line along the slider ‘S’
to intersect the previously drawn line at S.
o Velocity of slider gS  2.6 m / s . Angular Velocity of link EF.

o Velocity of link F in the swivel block = OP  1.85 m / s .

 Problem 10: Figure shows two wheels 2 and 4 which rolls on a fixed link 1. The angular
uniform velocity of wheel is 2 is 10 rod/sec. Determine the angular velocity of links 3 and 4,
and also the relative velocity of point D with respect to point E.

 50 mm

 40 mm
B
3
C
o 60 mm
30

A
2
D
2
4

G
F

 Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.

Step 2: Given 2 = 10 rad/sec. Calculate velocity of B with respect to G.

Vb = 2 x BG
Vb = 10 x 43 = 430 mm/sec.
Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram by choosing a suitable scale.
B

C
30o

E D

G F
50 mm
Redrawn configuration diagram
 Velocity vector diagram
c

e d g, f

o Draw gb = 0.43 m/s r to BG.

o From b draw a line r to BC and from ‘f’ draw a line r to CF to intersect at C.
o From b draw a line r to BE and from g, f draw a line r to GE to intersect at e.
o From c draw a line r to CD and from f draw a line r to FD to intersect at d.

 Problem 11: For the mechanism shown in figure link 2 rotates at constant angular velocity of
1 rad/sec construct the velocity polygon and determine.
i) Velocity of point D.
ii) Angular velocity of link BD.
iii) Velocity of slider C.

 Solution:
Step 1: Draw configuration diagram.
 D O2 = 50.8 mm
6
AB = 102 mm
O6 BD = 102 mm
DO6 = 102 mm
5 AC = 203 mm

102 mm
A
3
B

45o C
4
O2
Step 2: Determine velocity of A with respect to O2.
Vb = 2 x O2A
Vb = 1 x 50.8 = 50.8 mm/sec.

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram, locate zero velocity points O2O6.

a
d
Udb
Vd

C
O2O6

o From O2, O6 draw a line r to O2A in the direction of rotation equal to 50.8 mm/sec.
o From a draw a line r to Ac and from O2, O6 draw a line along the line of stocks of c to
intersect the previously drawn line at c.
ab
o Mark point b on vector ac such that ab  x AB
AC
o From b draw a line r to BD and from O2, O6 draw a line r to O6D to intersect at d.
Step 4: Vd = O 6 d = 32 mm/sec

bd
bd = =
BD

Vc = O 2 C =

ADDITIONAL PROBLEMS FOR PRACTICE

 Problem 1: In a slider crank mechanism shown in offset by a perpendicular distance of 50
mm from the centre C. AB and BC are 750 mm and 200 mm long respectively crank BC is
rotating e at a uniform speed of 200 rpm. Draw the velocity vector diagram and determine
velocity of slider A and angular velocity of link AB.

50 mm

 Problem 2: For the mechanism shown in figure determine the velocities at points C, E and F
and the angular velocities of links, BC, CDE and EF.

C All dimensions are in mm

120
E
B
100
100 60 120 150
rpm 120o F

A D
50

 The crank op of a crank and slotted lever mechanism shown in figure rotates at 100 rpm in
the CCW direction. Various lengths of the links are OP = 90 mm, OA = 300 mm, AR = 480
mm and RS = 330 mm. The slider moves along an axis perpendicular to r AO and in 120
mm from O. Determine the velocity of the slider when | AOP is 135o and also mention the
maximum velocity of slider.
 45o
B
O
C

D
A
 Problem 4: Find the velocity of link 4 of the scotch yoke mechanism shown in figure. The
angular speed of link 2 is 200 rad/sec CCW, link O2P = 40 mm.

4
P

2
Q on link 4
45o

 Problem 5: In the mechanism shown in figure link AB rotates uniformly in C direction at

240 rpm. Determine the linear velocity of B and angular velocity of EF.

E C AB = 160 mm
B BC = 160 mm
CD = 100 mm
o
A 45 AD = 200 mm
EF = 200 mm
100 mm CE = 40 mm
F
II Method
 Instantaneous Method
To explain instantaneous centre let us consider a plane body P having a non-linear motion
relative to another body q consider two points A and B on body P having velocities as Va and Vb
respectively in the direction shown.

Va
A B
Vb
I P
q

Fig. 1

If a line is drawn r to Va, at A the body can be imagined to rotate about some point on
the line. Thirdly, centre of rotation of the body also lies on a line r to the direction of Vb at B.
If the intersection of the two lines is at I, the body P will be rotating about I at that instant. The
point I is known as the instantaneous centre of rotation for the body P. The position of
instantaneous centre changes with the motion of the body.

Va
A P

B Vb
q
I

Fig. 2

In case of the r lines drawn from A and B meet outside the body P as shown in Fig 2.

Va
A
B Vb

I at 
Fig. 3
If the direction of Va and Vb are parallel to the r at A and B met at . This is the case when the
body has linear motion.
 Number of Instantaneous Centers
The number of instantaneous centers in a mechanism depends upon number of links. If N
is the number of instantaneous centers and n is the number of links.
n n  1
N=
2

 Types of Instantaneous Centers

There are three types of instantaneous centers namely fixed, permanent and neither fixed
nor permanent.

Example: Four bar mechanism. n = 4.

n n  1 44  1
N= = 6
2 2
I13

I34
3

I23

4
2

I24
I12 1 I14

Fixed instantaneous center I12, I14

Permanent instantaneous center I23, I34
Neither fixed nor permanent instantaneous center I13, I24

 Arnold Kennedy theorem of three centers:

Statement: If three bodies have motion relative to each other, their instantaneous centers should
lie in a straight line.
Proof:
VA3 VA2
1 I12 2 2
I13

2
3
I23
A

Consider a three link mechanism with link 1 being fixed link 2 rotating about I12 and link
3 rotating about I13. Hence, I12 and I13 are the instantaneous centers for link 2 and link 3. Let us
assume that instantaneous center of link 2 and 3 be at point A i.e. I23. Point A is a coincident
point on link 2 and link 3.

Considering A on link 2, velocity of A with respect to I12 will be a vector VA2 r to link A
I12. Similarly for point A on link 3, velocity of A with respect to I13 will be r to A I13. It is seen
that velocity vector of VA2 and VA3 are in different directions which is impossible. Hence, the
instantaneous center of the two links cannot be at the assumed position.

It can be seen that when I23 lies on the line joining I12 and I13 the VA2 and VA3 will be
same in magnitude and direction. Hence, for the three links to be in relative motion all the three
centers should lie in a same straight line. Hence, the proof.

Steps to locate instantaneous centers:

Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.

Step 2: Identify the number of instantaneous centers by using the relation N=

n  1n .
2

Step 3: Identify the instantaneous centers by circle diagram.

Step 4: Locate all the instantaneous centers by making use of Kennedy’s theorem.

To illustrate the procedure let us consider an example.

 A slider crank mechanism has lengths of crank and connecting rod equal to 200 mm and
200 mm respectively locate all the instantaneous centers of the mechanism for the position of the
crank when it has turned through 30o from IOC. Also find velocity of slider and angular velocity
of connecting rod if crank rotates at 40 rad/sec.
Step 1: Draw configuration diagram to a suitable scale.
Step 2: Determine the number of links in the mechanism and find number of instantaneous
centers.

N=
n  1n
2
44  1
n = 4 links N= =6
2
I13

I24
A
3
2
200 I23 800
B
o
I12 30
4
O 1 I12
1

I14 to  I14 to 

Step 3: Identify instantaneous centers.

o Suit it is a 4-bar link the resulting figure will be a square.
1 I12 2
1 2 3 4
I24
I12 I23 I34
I41 I23 OR
I13 I24
I13
I14

4 I34 3
 o Locate fixed and permanent instantaneous centers. To locate neither fixed nor permanent
instantaneous centers use Kennedy’s three centers theorem.
Step 4: Velocity of different points.
Va = 2 AI12 = 40 x 0.2 = 8 m/s
also Va = 2 x A13
Va
 3 =
AI13
Vb = 3 x BI13 = Velocity of slider.

 Problem 2:
A four bar mechanisms has links AB = 300 mm, BC = CD = 360 mm and AD = 600 mm.
Angle | BAD  60 o . Crank AB rotates in C direction at a speed of 100 rpm. Locate all the
instantaneous centers and determine the angular velocity of link BC.

 Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram to a suitable scale.

Step 2: Find the number of Instantaneous centers

n  1n 44  1
N= = =6
2 2

Step 3: Identify the IC’s by circular method or book keeping method.

1 I12 2

I12 1 2 3 4

I12 I23 I34

I14 I23 OR
I13 I24
I13
I14
4 I34 3

Step 4: Locate all the visible IC’s and locate other IC’s by Kennedy’s theorem.
 I13

C
3
I34
B
I23
4
2

I24 I12 I14

D
A 1

2 x 100
Vb = 2 x BI12 = x 0.3  m / sec
60
Also Vb = 3 x BI13
Vb
3 =  rad / sec
BI13
 For a mechanism in figure crank OA rotates at 100 rpm clockwise using I.C. method
determine the linear velocities of points B, C, D and angular velocities of links AB, BC and
CD.
OA = 20 cm AB = 150 cm BC = 60 cm
CD = 50 cm BE = 40 cm OE = 135 cm

C
A 5 D
2 6
3
30o E 10 mm
1
O 4
B

Va = OA x OA
2  x 100
Va = x 0.2  2.1 m / s
60
n = 6 links
 n n  1
N=  15
2

1 2 3 4 5 6 5
12 23 34 45 56 4
3
13 24 35 46 2
14 25 36 1
15 26 ---
15
16 ---

I16 @  I16 @  I16 @ 

I13

I45
I23 5
6
2
3
1 I14 I56
I12

I34
I15

Link 3 I13

A
3
B

Va = 3AI13
Va
3 =  2.5 rad / sec
AI13
 Vb = 3 x BI13 = 2.675 m/s

Link 4 C

I14

4
B

Also Vb = 4 x BI14
Vb
4 =  6.37 rad / sec
BI14
VC = 4 x CI14 = 1.273 m/s

Link 5 C 5 D

I15

VC = 5 x CI15 Answers
VC Vb = 2.675 m/s
5 = 1.72 rad / sec VC = 1.273 m/s
AI15
Vd = 0.826 m/s
Vd = 5 x DI15 = 0.826 m/s ab = 2.5 rad/sec
bc = 6.37 rad/sec
cd = 1.72 rad/sec

 In the toggle mechanism shown in figure the slider D is constrained to move in a horizontal
path the crank OA is rotating in CCW direction at a speed of 180 rpm the dimensions of
various links are as follows:
OA = 180 mm CB = 240 mm
AB = 360 mm BD = 540 mm
Find,
i) Velocity of slider
ii) Angular velocity of links AB, CB and BD.
 A

45o

360 B
105

D
C
n = 6 links
n n  1
N=  15
2

1 2 3 4 5 6 5
12 23 34 45 56 4
3
13 24 35 46 2
14 25 36 1
15 26 ---
15
16 ---
 I16 @  I16 @ 

I15
A
I23
2
I16 @ 
I12 3
I46
O
I13 I45
B I35
I34
4 5

C
6
I24 I56
Va = 2 x AI12 = 3.4 m/s

Link 3 A

3

I13

Va = 3 x AI13
Va
3 =  2.44 rad / sec
AI13
Vb = 3 x BI13
Link 4 B

4

C I14

Vb = 4 x BI14
 Vb
4 = 11.875 rad / sec
AI14

Link 5 I15

B
5

Vb = 5 x BI15
Vb Answers
5 =  4.37 rad / sec Vd = 2 m/s
AI15
ab = 2.44 rad/sec
Vd = 5 x DI15 = 2 m/s bc = 11.875 rad/sec
cd = 4.37 rad/sec

 Figure shows a six link mechanism. What will be the velocity of cutting tool D and the
angular velocities of links BC and CD if crank rotates at 10 rad/sec.
 Q 25 B
90o
All dimensions
15 are in mm
15
C

45 45

60
A

15
o
30

D
I13 I14 I34
I16 @  I46
4

3
I45
I24
2
I23

I26 I12
5
I16 @ 
O

6 I16 @  I15
I56

Va = 2 x AI12 = 10 x 0.015
Va = 2 x AI12 = 0.15 m/s
Link 3 I13 B

3

Va = 3 x AI13
Va
3 =
AI13
Vb = 3 x BI13
 Link 4 Q B
I14 4

C
Vb = 4 x BI14
Vb
4 =  4.25 rad / sec
BI14
VC = 4 x CI14
Link 5 C

D I15

VC = 5 x CI15 Answers

VC Vd = 1.66 m/s
5 =  1.98 rad / sec
AI15 bc = 4.25 rad/sec
Vd = 5 x DI15 = 1.66 m/s cd = 1.98 rad/sec
 A whitworth quick return mechanism shown in figure has a fixed link OA and crank OP
having length 200 mm and 350 mm respectively. Other lengths are AR = 200 mm and RS =
40 mm. Find the velocity of the rotation using IC method when crank makes an angle of
120o with fixed link and rotates at 10 rad/sec.
 R

6 A

4
1 P

O 2 3
B
Locate the IC’s
n = 6 links
n n  1
N=  15
2

1 2 3 4 5 6 5
12 23 34 45 56 4
3
13 24 35 46 2
14 25 36 1
15 26 ---
15
16
---
 I15

I16 @ 
I46
I45

6
5

I14
I56
1
4
I12
2 I23
3
I34

I24

VP = 2 x OP = ……… m/s

 Acceleration Analysis
Rate of change of velocity is acceleration. A change in velocity requires any one of the
following conditions to be fulfilled:
o Change in magnitude only
o Change in direction only
o Change in both magnitude and direction

When the velocity of a particle changes in magnitude and direction it has two component
of acceleration.

1. Radial or centripetal acceleration

fc = 2r
Acceleration is parallel to the link and acting towards centre.
 A Va

A’ O1 ft oa oa
Va’ cosδθ
r δθ
δθ
fcoa
O Va’ sinδθ
Va’ f oa
a1

Va’ = (ω +  δ t) r
Velocity of A parallel to OA = 0
Velocity of A’ parallel to OA = Va’ sin δ θ
Therefore change in velocity = Va’ sin δ θ – 0

Centripetal acceleration = fc =
   t r sin 
t

as δt tends to Zero sin δ θ tends to δ θ


r  rt 
t

fc = ωr (dθ/ dt) =ω2r

But V = ωr or ω = V/r

Hence, fc =ω2r = V2/r

2. Tnagential Acceleration:
Va’ = (ω +  δ t) r
Velocity of A perpendicular to OA = Va
Velocity of A’ perpendicular to OA = Va’ cos δ θ
Therefore change in velocity = Va’ cos δ θ – Va

Tnagnetial acceleration = ft =
   t r cos   r
t
as δt tends to Zero cos δ θ tends to 1


r  rt   r
t

ft = r

Example:

fCab = 2AB
Acts parallel to BA and acts from B to A.

frab

fab

ftab

ft = BA acts r to link.

fBA = frBA + ftBA

 Problem 1: Four bar mechanism. For a 4-bar mechanism shown in figure draw velocity and
acceleration diagram.
All dimensions C
are in mm 66
B
50 56
 = 10.5 rad/sec

60o
A D
100
 Solution:
Step 1: Draw configuration diagram to a scale.

Step 2: Draw velocity vector diagram to a scale.

Vb = 2 x AB
Vb = 10.5 x 0.05
Vb = 0.525 m/s

Vc
C

a1d

Vbc
b

Step 3: Prepare a table as shown below:

Sl.
Link Magnitude Direction Sense
No.
1. AB fc = 2ABr Parallel to AB A
fc = (10.5)2/0.525
fc = 5.51 m/s2
2. BC fc = 2BCr Parallel to BC B
fc = 1.75
ft = r r to BC –
3. CD fc = 2CDr Parallel to DC D
fc = 2.75
ft = ? r to DC –

Step 4: Draw the acceleration diagram.

 11el to CD a1d1

11el to CD

c1
 c1
 to BC fbc

b1 el b1 11el to AB
11 to BC
o Choose a suitable scale to draw acceleration diagram.
o Mark the zero acceleration point a1d 1.
o Link AB has only centripetal acceleration. Therefore, draw a line parallel to AB and
toward A from a1d1 equal to 5.51 m/s2 i.e. point b 1.
o From b1 draw a vector parallel to BC points towards B equal to 1.75 m/s2 (b 11).
o From b11 draw a line r to BC. The magnitude is not known.
o From a1d1 draw a vector parallel to AD and pointing towards D equal to 2.72 m/s 2 i.e.
point c1.

o From c11 draw a line r to CD to intersect the line drawn r to BC at c1, d1c1 = fCD and
b1c1 = fbc.

To determine angular acceleration.

t
f bc c b1
BC =  1 1  34.09 rad / sec (CCW)
BC BC
t
f cd c c1
CD =  1 1  79.11 rad / sec (CCW)
CD CD

 Problem 2: For the configuration of slider crank mechanism shown in figure below.
Calculate
i) Acceleration of slider B.
ii) Acceleration of point E.
iii) Angular acceleration of link AB.
If crank OA rotates at 20 rad/sec CCW.
 Solution:
 E All dimensions
450 are mm
A

1600
480
B
60o

Step 1: Draw configuration diagram.

Step 2: Find velocity of A with respect to O.

Va = OA x OA
Va = 20 x 0.48
Va = 9.6 m/s

Step 4: Draw velocity vector diagram.

e

5.25

b O1g
9.7

Step 4:
Sl.
Link Magnitude Direction Sense
No.
1. OA fcaO = 2OAr = 192 Parallel to OA O
2. AB fcab = 2abr = 17.2 Parallel to AB A
ftab – r to AB –
3. Slider B – Parallel to Slider –
Step 5: Draw the acceleration diagram choosing a suitable scale.
fb
fab o1g1
t
f ab

b11 192
fcab
172
a1

e1 ee1
 o Mark o1g1 (zero acceleration point)

o Draw o1g1 = C acceleration of OA towards ‘O’.

o From a1 draw a1b 11 = 17.2 m/s2 towards ‘A’ from b 11 draw a line r to AB.
o From o 1g1 draw a line along the slider B to intersect previously drawn line at b 1,
a 1 b1  f ab

g1 b1 = fb = 72 m/s2.

a 1 b1 A 1 R 1
o Extend a 1 b1 = a 1e1 such that  .
AB AE
o Join e1 to 1g1, g1e1 = fe = 236 m/s 2.

f abt bb 167
o ab =  1 1  = 104 rad/sec2 (CCW).
AB AB 1.6
Answers:
fb = 72 m/sec2
fe = 236 m/sec2
ab = 104 rad/sec2

 Problem 3: In a toggle mechanism shown in figure the crank OA rotates at 210 rpm CCW
increasing at the rate of 60 rad/s2.
 Velocity of slider D and angular velocity of link BD.
 Acceleration of slider D and angular acceleration of link BD.
 A
150
200
45o

400
B
300 500
D D

Q G

Step 1 Draw the configuration diagram to a scale.

Step 2 Find
Va = OA x OA
2 210 
Va = x 0.2 = 4.4 m/s
60

Step 3: Draw the velocity vector diagram.

a b

d o1,q,g

Step 4:
Sl.
Link Magnitude m/s2 Direction Sense
No.
1. fcaO = 2r = 96.8 Parallel to OA O
AO t r
f aO = r = 12  to OA –
2. fcab = 2r = 5.93 Parallel to AB A
AB
ftab = r = r to AB –
3. fcbq = 2r = 38.3 Parallel to BQ Q
BQ
ftbq = r = r to BQ –
4. BD fcbd = 2r = 20 r to BD B
5. ftbd = r = r to BD –
Slider D
– Parallel to slider motion –

Step 5: Draw the acceleration diagram choosing a suitable scale.

o Mark zero acceleration point.
fbd
fd
d1 O1q1g1

q11

fab

b11 d11
fcOA
b1
a1
ftOA
a11

o Draw o1a11 = fcOA and a11a = ftOA r to OA from

o o1a1 = fa

o From a1 draw a 1 b1  f c ab , from b 11 draw a line r to AB.

o From o1q1g1 draw o1q11 = fcbq and from q11 draw a line a line r to BQ to intersect the
previously drawn line at b1

q 1 b 1  f bq a 1 b1 = fab

o From b1 draw a line parallel to BD = fcbd such that b 1d 11 = fcbd.

o From d11 draw a line r to BD, from o1q1g1 draw a line along slider D to meet the
previously drawn line at .
 o g 1d 1  f d = 16.4 m/sec2.

o b 1d 1  f bd = 5.46 m/sec2.
f bd 5.46
o BD =  109.2 rad / sec 2
BD 0.5

Answers:
Vd = 2.54 m/s
bd = 6.32 rad/s
Fd = 16.4 m/s2
bd = 109.2 rad/s2
 Coriolis Acceleration: It has been seen that the acceleration of a body may have two
components.
 Centripetal acceleration and
 Tangential acceleration.

However, in same cases there will be a third component called as corilis acceleration to
illustrate this let us take an example of crank and slotted lever mechanisms.
P P1

2 B2
Q B1

B on link 3 d

3 A1

A on link 2
d 2

Assume link 2 having constant angular velocity 2, in its motions from OP to OP1 in a
small interval of time t. During this time slider 3 moves outwards from position B to B2.
Assume this motion also to have constant velocity VB/A. Consider the motion of slider from B to
B2 in 3 stages.
1. B to A1 due to rotation of link 2.
2. A1 to B1 due to outward velocity of slider VB/A.
3. B1 to B2 due to acceleration r to link 2 this component in the coriolis component of
acceleration.

We have Arc B1B2 = Arc QB2 – Arc QB1

= Arc QB2 – Arc AA1
 Arc B1B2 = OQ d - AO d
= A1B1 d
 = VB/A 2dt2

The tangential component of velocity is r to the link and is given by Vt = r. In this
case  has been assumed constant and the slider is moving on the link with constant velocity.
Therefore, tangential velocity of any point B on the slider 3 will result in uniform increase in
tangential velocity. The equation Vt = r remain same but r increases uniformly i.e. there is a
constant acceleration r to rod.

 Displacement B1B2 = ½ at2

= ½ f (dt)2
 ½ f (dt)2 = VB/A 2 dt2
fcrB/A = 22 VB/A coriolis acceleration

The direction of coriolis component is the direction of relative velocity vector for the two
coincident points rotated at 90o in the direction of angular velocity of rotation of the link.

Figure below shows the direction of coriolis acceleration in different situation.

fcr

2
2
2

fcr
(a) Rotation CW slider (b) Rotation CW slider
moving up moving down
fcr

2 2

fcr
(c) Rotation CCW slider (d) Rotation CCW slider
moving up moving down
A quick return mechanism of crank and slotted lever type shaping machine is
shown in Fig. the dimensions of various links are as follows.

O1O2 = 800 mm, O1B = 300 mm, O2D = 1300 mm and DR = 400 mm

The crank O1B makes an angle of 45o with the vertical and rotates at 40 rpm
in the CCW direction. Find:
iii) Acceleration of the Ram R, velocity of cutting tool, and
iv) Angular Acceleration of link AD.

Solution:
Step 1: Draw the configuration diagram.

R
R 200
Tool D
D
B on orank, A B
B
C
O 45o
C on AD 2

A
A
Step 2: Determine velocity of point B.

Vb = OB x OB

2NO1B 2 x 40
OB =   4.18 rad / sec
60 60

Vb = 4.18 x 0.3 = 1.254 m/sec

Step 3: Draw velocity vector diagram.

Choose a suitable scale 1 cm = 0.3 m/sec

b
d

r o.a

Step 4: prepare table showing the acceleration components

Sl.
Link Magnitude m/s2 Direction Sense
No.
fcob = 2r =5.24 Parallel to OB O
1. OB
–
fcac = 2r Parallel to AB A
2. AC
ftac = r r to AB –
fsbc =r Parallel to AB _
3. BC
fccbc = 2v = r to AC –
fcbd = 2r = 20
Parallel to DR D
4. DR ftbd = r
r to BD _

ftbd = r –
5. Slider R Parallel to slider motion
 r1 fr
o1a1
t
f dr

b1’’
fcob
fad
ftab
d1 b1’
fcdr
r1’

fob
b1
fsab

fccbc
b1’’’

Acceleration of Ram = fr = o1 r

Angular Acceleration of link AD

fbd
 bd =
BD

KLENIN’S Construction

This method helps us to draw the velocity and acceleration diagrams on the
construction diagram itself. The crank of the configuration diagram represents the
velocity and acceleration line of the moving end (crank).

The procedure is given below for a slider crank mechanism.

 A
ω
800
200
45º B

To draw the velocity vector diagram:

Link OA represents the velocity vector of A with respect to O.

Voa = oa = ω r = ω OA.

b
b o

a
800
200 ω
a
45º

Draw a line perpendicular at O, extend the line BA to meet this perpendicular line
at b. oab is the velocity vector diagram rotated through 90º opposite to the rotation
of the crank.

Acceleration diagram:
The line representing Crank OA represents the acceleration of A with respect to O.
To draw the acceleration diagram follow the steps given below.
 Draw a circle with OA as radius and A as centre.
 Draw another circle with AB as diameter.
 The two circles intersect each other at two points C and D.
 Join C and D to meet OB at b1 and AB at E.
O1,a1,ba1and b1 is the required acceleration diagram rotated through 180º.

fb O1
b1

ftab
fab
fa
ba1
fcab
a1 a
ω
ba1
200
800
45º
B

O1 b1