Design of a Five bar Linkage

This project focused on the design, simulation, and analysis of a fivebar single-dwell linkage, a mechanical system used control motion with a temporary pause or dwell during operation. The primary goal was to ensure that a specific coupler point, P, remained stationary for 90° of crank rotation while moving between two positions for the remaining cycle. The linkage was optimized to minimize error in dwell performance and analyzed for kinematic and dynamic behavior.
Key tasks included:
• Coupler point selection using MATLAB to generate a pseudo-arc for dwell motion.
• Graphical and analytical solutions for linkage positions, velocities, and accelerations.
• Simulation and validation of the mechanism’s motion using MATLAB and AutoCAD.
• Physical prototyping of a scaled 3D-printed model to verify theoretical results.
• Error sensitivity analysis to assess the impact of parameter variations on dwell performance.
The project provided hands-on experience in linkage design, computational modeling, and dynamic analysis, the project was completed with a total of 3 group members over a course of 4 weeks. The group delivered a completed project as well going a step beyond by completing a real 3D printed linkage model.
The Fivebar Single-Dwell Linkage project delivers value by providing a cost-effective highly precise mechanical solution for applications requiring controlled motion with temporary pauses. By optimizing the linkage design through MATLAB simulations and physical prototyping, the system achieves a reliable 90° dwell motion without the need for additional sensors or actuators, reducing both hardware costs and maintenance complexity. This makes it ideal for industries like manufacturing, packaging, and automotive, where precision timing and repeatability are critical. By combining theoretical analysis with practical validation, the project demonstrates how engineering can solve real industrial challenges with measurable gains.