Cams can be classified based on their physical shape.

a) Disk or plate cam (Fig. 3.4 a and b): The disk (or plate) cam has an irregular contourto impart a specific motion to the follower. The follower moves in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the camshaft and is held in contact with the cam by springs or gravity.

Fig. 3.4 Plate or disk cam.

b) Cylindrical cam (Fig. 3.5): The cylindrical cam has a groove cut along its cylindricalsurface. The roller follows the groove, and the follower moves in a plane parallel to the axis of rotation of the cylinder.

Fig. 3.5 Cylindrical cam.

c) Translating cam (Fig. 3.6a and b). The translating cam is a contoured or groovedplate sliding on a guiding surface(s). The follower may oscillate (Fig. 3.6(a)) or reciprocate (Fig. 3.6(b)). The contour or the shape of the groove is determined by the specified motion of the follower.