Classification of follower:
i) As per shape:
• Knife-edge follower: When the contacting end of the follower has a sharp knife edge, it is called a knife edge follower.
• Roller follower: When the contacting end of the follower is a roller, it is called a roller follower.
• Flat faced or mushroom follower: When the contacting end of the follower is a perfectly flat face, it is called a flat faced follower and when the flat faced follower is circular, it is then called a mushroom follower.
• Spherical follower: When the contacting end of the follower is of spherical shape, it is called a spherical faced follower.
ii) As per motion:
• Reciprocating or translating follower: When the follower reciprocates in guides as the cam rotates uniformly, it is known as reciprocating or translating follower.
• Oscillating or rotating follower: When the uniform rotary motion of the cam is converted into predetermined oscillatory motion of the follower, it is called oscillating or rotating follower.