Cam Designer

A web-based engineering tool for designing, analyzing, and optimizing cam profiles and valve train systems.

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What is Cam Designer?

Cam Designer is an interactive tool for engineers and enthusiasts working with cam-driven valve train systems. It lets you define a cam motion profile using polynomial spline segments, then instantly visualize lift, velocity, acceleration, and jerk curves. The solver automatically closes the profile to ensure smooth, continuous motion across the full 360° rotation.

Beyond motion design, the tool computes the physical cam lobe shape, contact point paths, radius of curvature, and Hertzian contact stress for a variety of valve train geometries — from simple flat followers to complex overhead and under-cam rocker arm layouts. Fourier analysis and dynamics modules let you evaluate harmonic content and peak accelerations at any engine speed.

How It Works

1

Define Motion

Set rise and fall segment durations and control point values to shape your cam profile.

2

Solve & Visualize

The solver closes the profile and displays lift, velocity, acceleration, and jerk in real time.

3

Configure Valve Train

Choose a follower type and enter geometry parameters. The cam lobe and contact path update automatically.

4

Analyze

Inspect contact stress, radius of curvature, Fourier harmonics, and dynamic forces at any RPM.

Design & Analysis Tools

Supported Valve Train Types

The cam surface and contact geometry are computed for each of these configurations.

Flat FollowerTranslating flat-faced bucket tappet
Radiused FollowerTranslating roller or curved follower
OHV Rocker Arm – FlatPushrod valve train with flat rocker pad
OHV Rocker Arm – RollerPushrod valve train with roller follower
Cam Over Rocker ArmOverhead cam acting on rocker above pivot
Cam Under Rocker ArmCam positioned below rocker pivot

Ready to design?

Open the motion designer and start building your cam profile.

Get Started