Terminology Related to Parallel Mechanisms

Everyone who has read several articles on parallel mechanisms covering a similar subject has faced the confusion of dealing with non-standardized terminology. The number of articles increases exponentially and so does the number of terms coined to the same definition. Frequently, the title of a paper does not convey any specific information as to the contents of the paper due to the use of unclear terminology.

This terminology list is published in an attempt to assist readers and authors to cope with the diversity of the terminology in the field of parallel mechanisms. We make no attempt to force the use of the listed terms although we exhibit certain bias towards some of them. We have tried to enumerate all similar terms and discuss their differences, if such exist. Generally, the presented terminology has been coined in various publications through the years. Most of it is well established but there are terms that are used by only a few authors. To avoid confusion, discussions accompany most of the terms.

We acknowledge the help of Dr. Dimiter Zlatanov in preparing this terminology list.

The terminology list is open to suggestions and discussions. Enjoy the information and feel free to contact us with any questions and comments.