Geneva mechanism produces intermittent rotary motion from continuous rotary motion.

The Geneva mechanism is a commonly used indexing mechanism that converts continuous rotary motion into intermittent rotary motion. It is often used in various applications where precise indexing or intermittent motion is required, such as in conveyor systems, indexing tables, and mechanical clocks.

Here is an explanation of how the Geneva mechanism works:

1. Continuous rotary motion:
- The input shaft or driver (usually a crank or motor) provides continuous rotary motion.
- This continuous motion is typically in the form of a rotating disc or wheel.

2. Geneva wheel:
- The Geneva wheel is a specially designed disc or wheel with radial slots or notches around its circumference.
- The number of slots or notches on the Geneva wheel is usually four, but it can vary depending on the specific application.

3. Geneva cross:
- The Geneva cross is a rotating arm or driver that engages with the slots or notches on the Geneva wheel.
- The Geneva cross is usually mounted on a separate shaft or spindle that is perpendicular to the input shaft.

4. Intermittent rotary motion:
- As the input shaft rotates, the Geneva cross engages with one of the slots or notches on the Geneva wheel.
- This engagement causes the Geneva wheel to rotate a fixed angle, typically 90 degrees.
- The rotation of the Geneva wheel is intermittent, occurring only when the Geneva cross engages with a slot.

5. Releasing the engagement:
- Once the Geneva wheel has rotated the fixed angle, the engagement between the Geneva cross and the slot is released.
- This allows the input shaft to continue rotating while the Geneva wheel remains stationary until the next engagement.

The intermittent rotary motion produced by the Geneva mechanism is useful for applications that require precise positioning or intermittent operation. It provides a simple and reliable way to convert continuous rotary motion into controlled intermittent motion.

In conclusion, the Geneva mechanism is the mechanism that produces intermittent rotary motion from continuous rotary motion. It utilizes a specially designed wheel with slots or notches and a rotating arm or driver to achieve this conversion.