The ball and cam impact mechanism is a common system found in tools like electric impact drivers that generates powerful rotational impacts.
How it Works (Simplified)
At its core, the mechanism uses balls that ride on a shaped surface (the cam). As the input shaft rotates, the balls are forced up inclines on the cam. When they reach a certain point, they roll down or off the incline, causing a hammer mass to accelerate and strike an anvil attached to the output shaft. This rapid impact delivers a strong rotational force in short bursts.
Key Benefit
A significant advantage of the ball and cam design is its ability to handle the resistance encountered when driving a fastener. It allows the power source to be continuously rotating even while impacting, which prevents the motor from stalling when the output shaft stops momentarily due to resistance. Instead of stopping the motor, the mechanism simply engages and disengages, transferring the motor's rotational energy into impactful blows.
Where You Find It
This mechanism is widely used in:
- Electric Impact Drivers: Popular tools for quickly driving screws and bolts.
- Electric Impact Wrenches: Used for tightening or loosening nuts and bolts, often in automotive or construction applications.
It provides a balance of power and operational efficiency, making these tools effective for demanding tasks.
