Design of Machines With Compliant Bodies for Biomimetic Locomotion in Liquid Environments

2005 ◽  
Vol 128 (1) ◽  
pp. 3-13 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pablo Valdivia y Alvarado ◽  
Kamal Youcef-Toumi
Keyword(s):  
Mechanism Design ◽  
Analytical Solutions ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Kinematic Behavior ◽  
Comparable Performance ◽  
Structural Compliance ◽  
Alternative Designs

The aim of this work is to investigate alternative designs for machines intended for biomimetic locomotion in liquid environments. For this, structural compliance instead of discrete assemblies is used to achieve desired mechanism kinematics. We propose two models that describe the dynamics of special compliant mechanisms that can be used to achieve biomimetic locomotion in liquid environments. In addition, we describe the use of analytical solutions for mechanism design. Prototypes that implement the proposed compliant mechanisms are presented and their performance is measured by comparing their kinematic behavior and ultimate locomotion performance with the ones of real fish. This study shows that simpler, more robust mechanisms, as the ones described in this paper, can display comparable performance to existing designs.

Shape Optimization Framework for the Path of the Primary Compliance Vector in Compliant Mechanisms

2020 ◽  
Vol 12 (6) ◽  
Author(s):  
Hylke Kooistra ◽  
Charles J. Kim ◽  
Werner W. P. J. van de Sande ◽  
Just L. Herder
Keyword(s):  
Mechanism Design ◽  
Deformation Mechanism ◽  
General Framework ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Optimization Framework ◽  
Kinematic Behavior ◽  
Curve Representation ◽  
Compliant Mechanism Design ◽  
Load Perturbations

Abstract The primary compliance vector (PCV) captures the dominant kinematic behavior of a compliant mechanism. Its trajectory describes large deformation mechanism behavior and can be integrated in an optimization objective in detailed compliant mechanism design. This paper presents a general framework for the optimization of the PCV path, the mechanism trajectory of lowest energy, using a unified stiffness characterization and piecewise curve representation. We present a meaningful objective formulation for the PCV path that evaluates path shape, location, orientation, and length independently and apply the framework to two design examples. The framework is useful for design of planar and shell compliant mechanisms that traverse a specified mechanism trajectory and that are insensitive to load perturbations.

Bistable Compliant Four-Bar Mechanisms With a Single Torsional Spring

2006 ◽  
Author(s):  
Adarsh Mavanthoor ◽  
Ashok Midha
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element Analysis ◽  
Finite Element ◽  
Mechanism Design ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Stored Energy ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Bistable Behavior ◽  
Torsional Spring ◽  
Bistable Mechanism

Significant reduction in cost and time of bistable mechanism design can be achieved by understanding their bistable behavior. This paper presents bistable compliant mechanisms whose pseudo-rigid-body models (PRBM) are four-bar mechanisms with a torsional spring. Stable and unstable equilibrium positions are calculated for such four-bar mechanisms, defining their bistable behavior for all possible permutations of torsional spring locations. Finite Element Analysis (FEA) and simulation is used to illustrate the bistable behavior of a compliant mechanism with a straight compliant member, using stored energy plots. These results, along with the four-bar and the compliant mechanism information, can then be used to design a bistable compliant mechanism to meet specified requirements.

A Unified Kinetostatic Analysis Framework for Planar Compliant and Rigid Body Mechanisms

2014 ◽  
Author(s):  
Omer Anil Turkkan ◽  
Hai-Jun Su
Keyword(s):  
Mechanism Design ◽  
Static Analysis ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Daily Life ◽  
Analysis Framework ◽  
Planar Mechanisms ◽  
Simulation Tools ◽  
Compliant Joints ◽  
Adams Software ◽  
Simulation Results

Although many dynamic solvers are available for planar mechanisms, there is no readily accessible static solver that can be used in analysis of planar mechanisms with elastic components which achieve motion utilizing deformation of elastic members. New simulation tools are necessary to better understand the compliant mechanisms and to increase their usage in daily life. This framework was developed to fill this gap in planar mechanism design and analysis. The framework was written in MATLAB and is capable of kinematic and static analysis of planar mechanisms with compliant joints or links. Detailed information on implementation of the code is presented and is followed by the capabilities of the framework. Finally, the simulation results were compared with the Adams software to test the validity of the framework.

On the Extraction of Kinematic Behavior From Optimal Compliant Topologies With Application to Number Synthesis of Linkages

2001 ◽  
Author(s):  
Anupam Saxena ◽  
G. K. Ananthasuresh
Keyword(s):  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Optimization Method ◽  
Dimensional Synthesis ◽  
Kinematic Chains ◽  
Design Specifications ◽  
Kinematic Behavior ◽  
Added Benefit ◽  
Number Synthesis ◽  
Elastic Mechanics

Abstract This paper presents a number of systematically designed compliant topologies and discusses how the intrinsic kinematic behavior can be extracted from them. This is then applied to the number synthesis of linkages. Many techniques developed for number synthesis of linkages enumerate numerous possible kinematic chains, but few can select the best configuration among them. A systematic computational approach that can select the best configuration based on kinetostatic design specifications is presented here. This is a serendipitous result that transpired when two well-developed design techniques for compliant mechanisms were combined. A number of examples with non-intuitive design specifications are included to illustrate the new approach to number synthesis. The examples also illustrate that the kinematic behavior is aptly captured in the elastic mechanics-based topology optimization method to compliant mechanism design. Dimensional synthesis is also accomplished in the same procedure, which is an added benefit of this approach.

Classification of Compliant Mechanisms and Determination of the Degrees of Freedom Using the Concepts of Compliance Number and Pseudo-Rigid-Body Model

2019 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pratheek Bagivalu Prasanna ◽  
Ashok Midha ◽  
Sushrut G. Bapat
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Body Model ◽  
Active Compliance ◽  
Kinematic Behavior ◽  
Rigid Body Model

Abstract Understanding the kinematic properties of a compliant mechanism has always proved to be a challenge. A concept of compliance number offered earlier emphasized the development of terminology that aided in its determination. A method to evaluate the elastic degrees of freedom associated with the flexible segments/links of a compliant mechanism using the pseudo-rigid-body model (PRBM) concept is provided. In this process, two distinct classes of compliant mechanisms are developed involving: (i) Active Compliance and (ii) Passive Compliance. Furthermore, these also aid in a better characterization of the kinematic behavior of a compliant mechanism. A more lucid interpretation of the significance of compliance number is provided. Applications of this method to both active and passive compliant mechanisms are exemplified. Finally, an experimental procedure that aids in visualizing the degrees of freedom as calculated is presented.

A Well-Behaved Revolute Flexure Joint for Compliant Mechanism Design

1999 ◽  
Vol 121 (3) ◽  
pp. 424-429 ◽  
Author(s):  
M. Goldfarb ◽  
J. E. Speich
Keyword(s):  
Mechanism Design ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Bending Properties ◽  
Thin Beam ◽  
Primary Mechanism ◽  
Joint Characteristics ◽  
Flexure Joints ◽  
Compliant Mechanism Design ◽  
Torsional Properties

This paper describes the design of a unique revolute flexure joint, called a split-tube flexure, that enables (lumped compliance) compliant mechanism design with a considerably larger range-of-motion than a conventional thin beam flexure, and additionally provides significantly better multi-axis revolute joint characteristics. Conventional flexure joints utilize bending as the primary mechanism of deformation. In contrast, the split-tube flexure joint incorporates torsion as the primary mode of deformation, and contrasts the torsional properties of a thin-walled open-section member with the bending properties of that member to obtain desirable joint behavior. The development of this joint enables the development of compliant mechanisms that are quite compliant along kinematic axes, extremely stiff along structural axes, and are capable of kinematically well-behaved large motions.

Utilizing a Classification Scheme to Facilitate Rigid-Body Replacement for Compliant Mechanism Design

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brian M. Olsen ◽  
Yanal Issac ◽  
Larry L. Howell ◽  
Spencer P. Magleby
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Mechanism Design ◽  
Classification Scheme ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
The Other ◽  
Design Approach ◽  
Compliant Mechanism Design

The knowledge related to the synthesis and analysis of compliant mechanisms continues to grow and mature. Building on this growth, a classification scheme has been established to categorize compliant elements and mechanisms in a manner that engineers can incorporate compliance into their designs. This paper demonstrates a design approach engineers can use to convert an existing rigid-body mechanism into a compliant mechanism by using an established classification scheme. This approach proposes two possible techniques that use rigid-body replacement synthesis in conjunction with a compliant mechanism classification scheme. One technique replaces rigid-body elements with a respective compliant element. The other technique replaces a complex rigid-body mechanism by decomposing the mechanism into simpler functions and then replacing a respective rigid-body mechanism with a compliant mechanism that has a similar functionality.

Design Rules for Selecting and Designing Compliant Mechanisms for Rigid-Body Replacement Synthesis

2000 ◽  
Author(s):  
Michael D. Berglund ◽  
Spencer P. Magleby ◽  
Larry L. Howell
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Rational Method ◽  
Design Concept ◽  
Design Features ◽  
Design Problems ◽  
Design Rules ◽  
General Design ◽  
Mechanical Devices ◽  
Alternative Designs

Abstract There exists a need for methodologies on designing mechanical devices with flexible elements (compliant mechanisms). Many engineers currently have little direction in their designing efforts and have difficulty improving the performance of devices with flexible members. This paper presents a step towards a process and a set of rules for designing compliant mechanisms which aid engineers in selecting the best design concept among a set of alternatives. The approach is a more rational method for selecting and improving designs than the existing intuitive approach engineers now take. The general design rules aid the engineer in identifying good and bad design features and practices for devices containing flexible elements. The design rules help engineers avoid oversights and/or overlooked factors in design problems. Since many equivalent compliant mechanisms can be made from a single rigid-body solution, the rules can help engineers select between the compliant alternative designs.

Characteristic Deflection Domain for Various Compliant Segment Types, and its Importance in Compliant Mechanism Synthesis and Analysis

2014 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ashok Midha ◽  
Sushrut G. Bapat
Keyword(s):  
Boundary Conditions ◽  
Mechanism Design ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Solution Process ◽  
Displacement Boundary ◽  
Fundamental Understanding ◽  
Rigid Body Model ◽  
Compliant Mechanism Design ◽  
Insight Into

Compliant mechanism design inherently requires certain specified displacement boundary conditions to be satisfied. Obtaining realistic solutions for such problem types often becomes a challenge as the number of displacement boundary condition specifications increases. Typically, related failures are attributed to the numerical nature of the solution process. Little attention has been given to the fundamental understanding of the deformation behavior of flexible continuum with respect to its limits of mobility or reach. This paper strives to provide an insight into this aspect of compliant mechanism design. To assist a designer with the specification of realistic and achievable requirements, the concept of characteristic deflection domain has been proposed in the past. This paper systematically develops the characteristic deflection domain for a variety of compliant segment types. The pseudo-rigid-body model (PRBM) representation is utilized for determining the lower and upper boundaries of the deflection domain. The paper further investigates the mobility characteristics of compliant mechanisms comprised of multiple segment types. Case studies are presented that help exemplify the use of the characteristic deflection domain plots. The results suggest that the number, type, and orientation of the compliant segments have a significant effect on the mobility of compliant mechanisms. Thus, care must be exercised by the designer when specifying free-choices/boundary conditions in compliant mechanisms synthesis and analysis.

Compliant Joint Design Principles for High Compressive Load Situations

2004 ◽  
Vol 127 (4) ◽  
pp. 774-781 ◽  
Author(s):  
Alexandre E. Guérinot ◽  
Spencer P. Magleby ◽  
Larry L. Howell ◽  
Robert H. Todd
Keyword(s):  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compressive Load ◽  
High Load ◽  
Compliant Joints ◽  
High Compression ◽  
Kinematic Behavior ◽  
Compliant Joint ◽  
Compressive Loads ◽  
Buckling Failure ◽  
And Inversion

Buckling failure has been a major obstacle in designing compliant joints in high compression applications. This paper describes two principles, isolation and inversion, that can be successfully applied to many compliant joints to increase their ability to withstand high compressive loads by avoiding buckling-prone loading conditions. Isolation and inversion give rise to a new breed of compliant joints called high compression compliant mechanisms (HCCM). HCCMs have many of the inherent advantages of compliant mechanisms with the additional qualities of high load-bearing joints. This added robustness in compression can be achieved without adversely affecting the kinematic behavior of the joint.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document