A Compliant Mechanism Design Methodology for Coupled and Uncoupled Systems, and Governing Free Choice Selection Considerations

2004 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ashok Midha ◽  
Yuvaraj Annamalai ◽  
Sharath K. Kolachalam
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Free Choice ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
State Of The Art ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Mechanism Synthesis ◽  
Strongly Coupled ◽  
Revolute Joints ◽  
Compliant Mechanism Design

Compliant mechanisms are defined as mechanisms that gain some, or all of their mobility from the flexibility of their members. Suitable use of pseudo-rigid-body models for compliant segments, and relying on the state-of-the-art knowledge of rigid-body mechanism synthesis types, greatly simplifies the design of compliant mechanisms. Assuming a pseudo-rigid-body four-bar mechanism, with one to four torsional springs located at the revolute joints to represent mechanism compliance, a simple, heuristic approach is provided to develop various compliant mechanism types. The synthesis with compliance method is used for three, four and five precision positions, with consideration of one to four torsional springs, to systematically develop design tables for standard mechanism synthesis types. These tables appropriately reflect the mechanism compliance by specification of either energy or torque. Examples are presented to demonstrate the use of weakly or strongly coupled sets of kinematic and energy/torque equations, as well as different compliant mechanism types in obtaining solutions.

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 of a Continuum Mechanism that Matches the Movement of an Eight-bar Linkage

2020 ◽  
pp. 1-11
Author(s):  
Xueao Liu ◽  
J. Michael McCarthy
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element Analysis ◽  
Rigid Body ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Initial Structure ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Kinematic Synthesis ◽  
Generic Structure ◽  
Straight Line

Abstract This paper presents a design methodology for mechanisms consisting of a single continuous structure, continuum mechanisms, that blends the kinematic synthesis of rigid-body mechanisms with topology optimization for compliant mechanisms. Rather than start with a generic structure that is shaped to achieve a required force deflection task for a compliant mechanism, our approach shapes the initial structure based on kinematic synthesis of a rigid body mechanism for the required movement, then the structure is shaped using Finite Element Analysis to achieve the required force deflection relationship. The result of this approach is a continuum mechanism with the same workpiece movement as the rigid link mechanism when actuated. An example illustrates the design process to obtain an eight-bar linkage that guides its workpiece in straight-line rectilinear movement. We show that the resulting continuum mechanism provides the desired rectilinear movement. A 210 mm physical model machined from Nylon-6 is shown to achieve 21.5mm rectilinear movement with no perceived deviation from a straight-line.

On the Classification of Compliant Mechanisms and Synthesis of Compliant Single-Strip Mechanisms

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ashok Midha ◽  
Sharath K. Kolachalam ◽  
Yuvaraj Annamalai
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Basic Mechanism ◽  
Governing Equations ◽  
Mechanism Synthesis ◽  
Synthesis Techniques ◽  
Single Strip

Compliant mechanisms, unlike rigid-body mechanisms, are devices that derive some or all of their mobility due to the deformation of their flexible members. The knowledge of existing rigid-body mechanism synthesis techniques is very useful in designing compliant mechanisms. In rigid-body mechanisms, a four-bar is treated as the basic mechanism that can transfer motion, force or energy. In this paper, a compliant single-strip continuum is introduced as the basic compliant mechanism that can transfer motion, force or energy. A classification of compliant mechanisms is presented herein. A methodology for compliant single-strip mechanism synthesis for energy, force or torque specifications is developed in this research as our second objective. The synthesis types, the governing equations, and the variables involved are enumerated.

Synthesis Methods in Compliant Mechanisms: An Overview

2009 ◽  
Author(s):  
Juan A. Gallego ◽  
Just Herder
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Design Methods ◽  
Synthesis Methods ◽  
Starting Point ◽  
Rigid Body Model ◽  
Wide Perspective ◽  
Conceptual Overview ◽  
Compliant Mechanism Design

Compliant mechanisms are rapidly gaining importance, yet their design remains challenging. A great variety of methods are being developed as it is reported in a growing stream of publications. However, so far no review of this body of literature is available. This paper provides a comprehensive and conceptual overview of the main notions behind the most relevant design methods for compliant mechanisms. Rigid-Body-Replacement methods including the Pseudo-Rigid-Body model and the FACT approach are covered, as well as Building Block approaches. In addition an introduction and explanation on Topology Optimization and Shape Optimization is provided, including their most common parameterizations and formulations. This work aims to serve as an introduction into compliant mechanism design methods and as a reference work for more experienced scholars and professionals. It is intended to be a starting point for the exploration of the literature, as well as a guide to specific papers about a particular design problem one may have. For this reason, the paper presents the methods in a wide perspective, emphasizing the conceptual ideas behind every method and refers to literature for details and advanced features.

scholarly journals Compliant Mechanism Road Bicycle Brake: A Rigid-Body Replacement Case Study

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Brian M. Olsen ◽  
Larry L. Howell ◽  
Spencer P. Magleby
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
High Performance ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Low Weight ◽  
Rigid Body Model ◽  
Compliant Mechanism Design

This paper demonstrates rigid-body replacement synthesis in the design a mechanism with known design objectives. The design of high-performance bicycle brakes is complicated by a variety of competing design objectives, including increased performance and low weight. But this challenge also provides a good case study to demonstrate the design of compliant mechanisms to replace traditional rigid-link mechanisms. This paper briefly reviews current road brake designs, demonstrates the use of rigid-body replacement synthesis to design a compliant mechanism, and illustrates the combination of compliant mechanism design tools. The resulting concept was generated from the modified dual-pivot brake design and is a partially compliant mechanism where one pin has the dual role of a joint and a mounting pin. The pseudo-rigid-body model, finite element analysis, and optimization algorithms are used to generate design dimensions, and designs are considered for both titanium and E-glass flexures. The resulting design has the potential of reducing the part count and overall weight while maintaining a performance similar to the benchmark.

On the Nomenclature and Classification of Compliant Mechanisms: Abstractions of Mechanisms and Mechanism Synthesis Problems

1992 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ashok Midha ◽  
Tony W. Norton ◽  
Larry L. Howell
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Mechanism Synthesis ◽  
Levels Of Abstraction ◽  
Significant Growth ◽  
Important Field ◽  
The Common ◽  
Body Joints

Abstract A compliant mechanism is one which gains all or part of its mobility from the relative flexibility of its members rather than from rigid-body joints only. Compliant mechanisms offer clear advantages, such as need for fewer parts, less wear, noise and backlash due to clearances, when compared to rigid-body mechanisms performing similar functions. This important field is expected to undergo significant growth as materials with superior properties are developed. In the development of compliant mechanisms, the establishment of nomenclature and classification is of primary importance. This paper discusses common representations, i.e. names and diagrams, for a compliant mechanism. Names and diagrams will be shown to be similar because they represent “abstractions” of the same mechanism. The concept of “levels of abstraction” is introduced, and common levels of abstraction are identified. The relevance of this concept to the naming of mechanisms is shown by applying it to both rigid-body and compliant mechanism examples. Nomenclature is proposed for several of the common levels of abstraction, and issues involved in naming mechanisms are discussed. Finally, a discussion of synthesis types is presented, as are the advantages, disadvantages, and issues involved in the synthesis of a compliant mechanism.

Pseudo-Rigid-Body Model Chain Algorithm: Part 1 — Introduction and Concept Development

2006 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joby Pauly ◽  
Ashok Midha
Keyword(s):  
Boundary Conditions ◽  
Rigid Body ◽  
Mechanism Design ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Loop Closure ◽  
Body Model ◽  
Rigid Body Model ◽  
Model Chain ◽  
Compliant Mechanism Design

Pseudo-rigid-body models help expedite the compliant mechanism design process by aiding the analysis and synthesis of candidate design solutions, using loop-closure techniques for rigid-body mechanisms. Presently, these models are available only for relatively simple compliant beam geometries and loading situations. The chain algorithm is an alternate method for the design and analysis of compliant mechanisms. Though more versatile, insofar as the geometry and loading are concerned, it is not possible to implement this technique in analysis or synthesis problems involving loop-closure equations. This paper proposes the construction of a generalized “pseudo-rigid-body model chain;” it allows the use of pseudo-rigid-body models in conjunction with the chain algorithm to obtain the deformation kinematics of complex compliant members. Such a “pseudo-rigid-body model chain” would possess dual advantages of expediency of modeling through the use of pseudo-rigid-body representations of compliant segments, and the inherent flexibility of the chain algorithm to geometry and load boundary conditions. The proposed technique involves discretization of the planar continuum into initially straight, equal length compliant segments, whose deflections due to the applied load boundary conditions are then determined using appropriate pseudo-rigid-body models. Such a model could potentially be used in the solution of compliant mechanism design and analysis problems when coupled with the use of loop-closure equations.

Using Lamina Emergent Mechanisms to Develop Credit-Card-Sized Products

2011 ◽  
Author(s):  
Nathan B. Albrechtsen ◽  
Spencer P. Magleby ◽  
Larry L. Howell
Keyword(s):  
Form Factor ◽  
Rigid Body ◽  
Credit Card ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
State Of The Art ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Suitable Candidate ◽  
Current State ◽  
Strong Motivation ◽  
Main Component

The compactness and portability of credit-card-sized products create a strong motivation for their development. This paper proposes that lamina emergent mechanisms (LEMs) provide a means for expanding the capabilities of credit-card-sized mechanisms. LEMs are a type of compliant mechanism that is fabricated from sheet goods with motion that emerges from the sheet. A review of the current state-of-the-art in credit-card-sized mechanisms reveals that there are two primary types of mechanisms most commonly used in this form factor: rigid-body mechanisms and in-plane compliant mechanisms. The challenges of each of these mechanism areas and the LEM advantage corresponding to each challenge are described. Criteria are developed for determining if a product is a suitable candidate for using LEM technology to create a credit-card-sized mechanism. The credit-card-sized LEM advantages and suitability criteria are illustrated through an example product—a compact lancing device that could be used as a main component for a more portable epinephrine syringe.

A Simple and Accurate Method for Determining Large Deflections in Compliant Mechanisms Subjected to End Forces and Moments

1998 ◽  
Vol 120 (3) ◽  
pp. 392-400 ◽  
Author(s):  
A. Saxena ◽  
S. N. Kramer
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Elliptic Integral ◽  
Beam Equation ◽  
Large Deflections ◽  
Euler Beam ◽  
Body Model ◽  
Rigid Body Model ◽  
Analysis And Synthesis

Compliant members in flexible link mechanisms undergo large deflections when subjected to external loads. Because of this fact, traditional methods of deflection analysis do not apply. Since the nonlinearities introduced by these large deflections make the system comprising such members difficult to solve, parametric deflection approximations are deemed helpful in the analysis and synthesis of compliant mechanisms. This is accomplished by representing the compliant mechanism as a pseudo-rigid-body model. A wealth of analysis and synthesis techniques available for rigid-body mechanisms thus become amenable to the design of compliant mechanisms. In this paper, a pseudo-rigid-body model is developed and solved for the tip deflection of flexible beams for combined end loads. A numerical integration technique using quadrature formulae has been employed to solve the large deflection Bernoulli-Euler beam equation for the tip deflection. Implementation of this scheme is simpler than the elliptic integral formulation and provides very accurate results. An example for the synthesis of a compliant mechanism using the proposed model is also presented.

Load-Transmitter Constraint Sets: Part I—An Effective Tool for Visualizing Load Flow in Compliant Mechanisms and Structures

2010 ◽  
Author(s):  
Girish Krishnan ◽  
Charles Kim ◽  
Sridhar Kota
Keyword(s):  
Building Block ◽  
Deformation Behavior ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Load Flow ◽  
Mathematical Framework ◽  
Design Synthesis ◽  
Fundamental Building Block ◽  
Block Based

Visualizing load flow aids in conceptual design synthesis of machine components. In this paper, we present a mathematical framework to visualize load flow in compliant mechanisms and structures. This framework uses the concept of transferred forces to quantify load flow from input to the output of a compliant mechanism. The key contribution of this paper is the identification a fundamental building block known as the Load-Transmitter Constraint (LTC) set, which enables load flow in a particular direction. The transferred force in each LTC set is shown to be independent of successive LTC sets that are attached to it. This enables a continuous visualization of load flow from the input to the output. Furthermore, we mathematically relate the load flow with the deformation behavior of the mechanism. We can thus explain the deformation behavior of a number of compliant mechanisms from literature by identifying its LTC sets to visualize load flow. This method can also be used to visualize load flow in optimal stiff structure topologies. The insight obtained from this visualization tool facilitates a systematic building block based design methodology for compliant mechanisms and structural topologies.

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