The classification method of spherical single-loop mechanisms

Based on the singularity of constraint equations and the division of dimension space of links, the classification method of spherical single-loop mechanisms was studied. Firstly, the classification conditions were derived from the singularity of constraint equations. Secondly, the complex division process of dimension space of links was investigated. Finally, the classification method was validated by using 4-, 5- and 6-link spherical mechanisms. It is shown that the classification method is comprehensive and all the classification information is included in the complex division results, and this method is appropriate for the classification of complicated mechanisms by computers.

Highlight
► We proposed a comprehensive classification method of spherical mechanisms.
► The topology of the solution space is employed as the classification criterion.
► The classification condition is taken from the singularity of constraint equations.
► The classification method is the division of complex in dimension space.
► This method is suitable to classify complicated mechanisms by computer.