Quick return mechanism is used to produce a reciprocating motion in which the time taken for the travel in return stroke is very less when compared to the forward stroke. It is driven in a circular motion by a motor.
The following image shows the final assembly of quick return mechanism.
Quick return mechanism is a commonly used in the tools in which the action is performed in only one direction of the return stroke stroke such as shapers and powered sauce, because it allows less time to be spent on the returning tool to its initial position. A quick return mechanism plays a vital role in the engineering industry with different machines.
Working Principle:
Working Stroke: The tool or machine part moves slowly during the cutting or working phase to ensure precision and effective material removal.
Return Stroke: The tool or machine part moves back quickly to its starting position, minimizing the non-productive time and increasing overall productivity.
Some Common Types of Quick Return Mechanism:
Crank and Slotted Lever Mechanism: Uses a slotted lever and a crank to achieve the quick return. As the crank rotates, it moves the lever, which drives the tool forward slowly and returns it quickly.
Whitworth Quick Return Mechanism: Utilizes a rotating crank connected to a slotted arm, creating a difference in speeds between the working and return strokes.
Hydraulic Quick Return Mechanism: Uses hydraulic pressure to achieve faster return strokes in modern machinery.
APPLICATIONS OF QUICK RETURN MECHANISM
The following are the applications of the quick return mechanisms .
- It is useful in shaper machines.
- Screw press.
- Power driven saw.
- Mechanical actuator.
- Revolver mechanism.
- Water pumping system.
The quick return mechanism is used in the slotter machine, where the rotary motion of the electric motor is converted into the reciprocating motion of the ram. Moreover the return stroke will be faster when compared to the forward stroke.
The following video explains how to design a quick return mechanism in creo.Do check this out.