SAM is equipped with a large library of basic elements, including:
- beam, slider
- curved slider
- belt, gear
- rack-and-pinion
- sensor
- spring, damper and friction element (both translational and rotational)
- non-linear spring, gas spring
- motor
These components allow the analysis of a huge variety of linkage mechanisms. The unique mathematical foundation of the program offers a large number of features and overcomes many of the problems of traditional mechanism programs. Open loop, closed loop and even multiple loop mechanisms are treated in the same way and even the most complex mechanisms, including planetary gear trains, can be modeled within minutes.
CAD interface
The DXF import/export facility lets you export your conceptual mechanism design to any CAD program to work out the details and it lets you import CAD data to easily set-up the mechanism in SAM or to perform animation of the final mechanism. Imported CAD parts may be used as illustrative parts of the mechanism.
Available graphic components:
- point
- line
- circle
- rectangle
- centreline
- polyline/polygon
- Beziér curve
- text and text box with call out
The intersection of graphic components is "dynamic", which means it stays up to date when subjected components are modified. Graphic points can be reused for the construction of the mechanism. All graphic items have editable line and fill colors.
Graphic shapes can be attached to moving elements of the mechanism. Also the drawing order of parts can be changed, resulting in realistic presentations.
