What is the function of a cam?

[ColeFitz]

The function of a cam is as a mechanical rotating or sliding component that transmits motion to a roller moving along its edge or a needle rod moving freely on a groove surface, or receives force from such rollers and needle rods. Generally, it is a high-pair mechanism composed of three components: the cam, the follower, and the frame. The cam usually rotates continuously at a constant speed, while the follower is designed according to usage requirements to achieve a specific motion pattern. Cam mechanisms can fulfill complex motion requirements and are widely used in various automated and semi-automated mechanical devices. Almost any arbitrary motion can be generated through this mechanism. A cam is a component with a curved profile or groove, which can be classified into disc cams, translating cams, and cylindrical cams.