1. Introduction and Background - IR

For my final project, I chose to build a 5-bar slotted quick return mechanism. With a quick return mechanism, the output force is greater than the input force, allowing the mechanism to have a lot of applications. My original idea was to use the 5-bar mechanism as a "smasher", since the mechanical advantage would provide enough downward force to crack a peanut shell or smash a piece of fruit.