Scott Russell linkage
![](../I/m/Freemantle_straight-line_linkage.jpg)
![](../I/m/Scott_Russell_linkage.gif)
A Scott Russell linkage gives a theoretically linear motion by using a linkage form with three portions of the links all equal, and a rolling or sliding connection. It can be used to form a right-angle change of motion, linear-to-linear.
The linkage is named for John Scott Russell (1808–1882), although the linkage had already been patented in 1803 by watchmaker William Freemantle[1][2].
A different form of the linkage has been used in a front-wheel-drive vehicle with solid rear axle to control lateral movement, and with a flexing elastomeric connection instead of the rolling or sliding connection.[3]
![](../I/m/Scott_Russell_Linkage.jpg)
The linkage does not share the disadvantages of the asymmetric Panhard rod and although more compact than Watt's linkage has all the forces in one link.[4]
References
- ↑ British Patent 2741, November 17, 1803
- ↑ Project Gutenberg: KINEMATICS OF MECHANISMS FROM THE TIME OF WATT, Eugene S. Ferguson
- ↑ US Patent 6179328
- ↑ Article about the Scott-Russell linkage used in the Nissan Sentra
External links
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