A roller joint, also known as a rolling joint according to the provided reference, is a type of mechanical joint designed for specific movements between two connecting parts.
Understanding the Rolling Joint
Based on the definition, a rolling joint is characterized by its unique structure and function.
Key Characteristics
- Structure: It consists of two distinct segments that interface with each other.
- Alignment: These interfacing segments are positioned perpendicular to each other.
- Contact: The segments share a single, moving point of contact rather than a fixed axis or surface.
- Connection: Cables are typically utilized as the mechanism to hold the individual segments of the joint together.
- Degrees of Freedom (DOF): This type of joint provides two degrees of freedom when operating in a three-dimensional space.
How it Works
Unlike joints that might slide or pivot around a fixed point or axis, a rolling joint allows movement through the articulation of its perpendicularly aligned segments at a point that translates as motion occurs. The tension provided by the cables helps maintain the integrity of the joint and control the motion within its two degrees of freedom.
This design is useful in applications where controlled, limited-DOF movement is required between two components aligned at a 90-degree angle. The precise mechanism of the "rolling point of contact" allows for specific types of articulation facilitated by the cable constraint system.
