Dynamic analysis of planar mechanisms with revolute clearance joints based on two evaluation indices

Joint clearance is one of the most important factors that influence the dynamic performance of a mechanical system. In this study, a quantitative analysis method, which contains two clearance effect evaluation indices that can better evaluate influence of clearance joints on the dynamic performance of the mechanisms, is proposed. A dynamic modeling approach of planar mechanisms with clearance joints is introduced. A crank-slider mechanism with multiple clearance revolute joints is studied to support the proposed analysis methodology. Besides, different dynamic responses generated by different materials of the clearance joints are also investigated based on the clearance effect evaluation indices.