Design and Modeling of a Variable Thickness Flexure Pivot

2018 ◽  
Vol 11 (1) ◽  
Author(s):  
Miao Yang ◽  
Zhijiang Du ◽  
Wei Dong ◽  
Lining Sun
Keyword(s):  
Axial Force ◽  
Variable Thickness ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Experimental Tests ◽  
Deformation Model ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Center Shift ◽  
Motion Range ◽  
Rotation Stiffness ◽  
Long Stroke

Flexure pivots are frequently applied in long stroke compliant mechanisms to transmit motion continuously. To improve the motion accuracy, a kind of variable thickness flexure pivot (VTFP) is proposed in this paper. A nonlinear beam element is proposed by utilizing the corotational approach to model the static response of the VTFP under end loads. Finite element analysis and experimental tests are carried out to verify the effectiveness of the modeling method. Based on the static deformation model, the motion range, the rotation stiffness, the center shift, and the variation of the center shift under axial force of the VTFP are investigated. The results show that the VTFP has better motion accuracy and better ability to resist axial force compared with the conventional flexure pivot.

Robust Design of Bistable Compliant Mechanisms Using the Bistability of a Clamped-Pinned Beam

2008 ◽  
Author(s):  
Young Seok Oh ◽  
Sridhar Kota
Keyword(s):  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Compliant Mechanism ◽  
Experimental Tests ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
Loading Conditions ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Bistable Behavior ◽  
Stable Position ◽  
Straight Beam ◽  
Free Beam

Our research investigates a new approach to design of bistable compliant mechanisms using the bistability of a clamped-free beam. Bistability plays an important role for a variety of applications since energy is applied only to move the mechanism from one stable position to another and no energy needs to be expended once a stable position is reached. Behavior of a bistable compliant mechanism, in general, is highly non-linear and relies on the buckling phenomenon. Normally, buckling is very sensitive to imperfections in manufacturing processes, operating conditions and boundary conditions. We present a method for designing bistable mechanisms that are robust against such imperfections by utilizing the behavior of a simple clamped-free beam. A solution for large deformation of a simple clamped-free beam is first obtained to study its bistable behavior under various loading conditions. If the load is greater than the critical buckling load, the beam can be deflected not only in the normal direction but also in a ‘reverse-lateral’ (RL) direction. First, an initially straight beam must be bent to a certain curvature under the action of the applied force. In the second loading condition, the partially bent beam is further loaded so that it buckles in the RL direction into a stable position. The magnitude and direction of the forces in both loading conditions that are conducive to bistability are thus determined. A compliant mechanism is then designed such that its output generates desired forces on the beam to deform it in the RL direction. We demonstrate that the RL deformation is less sensitive to the imperfections and ensures bistable behavior. Using clamped-pinned beams, two design examples (symmetric and asymmetric cases) of bistable compliant mechanisms are presented. Results show very good correlation between the finite element analysis and experimental tests on prototypes.

scholarly journals Multi-objective optimization of a type of ellipse-parabola shaped superelastic flexure hinge

2016 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 127-134 ◽  
Author(s):  
Zhijiang Du ◽  
Miao Yang ◽  
Wei Dong
Keyword(s):  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Pareto Frontier ◽  
Flexure Hinge ◽  
Multi Objective Optimization ◽  
Nsga Ii ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Multi Objective ◽  
Flexure Hinges ◽  
Static Responses ◽  
Motion Range

Abstract. Flexure hinges made of superelastic materials is a promising candidate to enhance the movability of compliant mechanisms. In this paper, we focus on the multi-objective optimization of a type of ellipse-parabola shaped superelastic flexure hinge. The objective is to determine a set of optimal geometric parameters that maximizes the motion range and the relative compliance of the flexure hinge and minimizes the relative rotation error during the deformation as well. Firstly, the paper presents a new type of ellipse-parabola shaped flexure hinge which is constructed by an ellipse arc and a parabola curve. Then, the static responses of superelastic flexure hinges are solved via non-prismatic beam elements derived by the co-rotational approach. Finite element analysis (FEA) and experiment tests are performed to verify the modeling method. Finally, a multi-objective optimization is performed and the Pareto frontier is found via the NSGA-II algorithm.

The Accurate Modeling and Performance Analysis of Cross-Spring Pivot as a Flexure Module

2008 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hongzhe Zhao ◽  
Shusheng Bi ◽  
Jingjun Yu ◽  
Guanghua Zong
Keyword(s):  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Bending Moment ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Rotational Angle ◽  
Rotational Displacement ◽  
Center Shift ◽  
Rotational Element ◽  
Displacement Behavior ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Relative Errors

The load-displacement behavior of a cross-spring pivot as a kind of rotational element or module in compliant mechanisms is a subject of keen interest for many researchers. The model allowing not only quick design but also characteristics capture is pursued. This paper addresses some accurate closed-form results via approximations. These expressions are simple for a designer to understand the parameters without resorting to a tedious iterative procedure. The rotational displacement and center shift of the pivot are analyzed both qualitatively and quantitatively, with a general-purposed load applied including bending moment, horizontal and vertical forces. Meanwhile, a concise expression for center shift without approximations is proposed. The validity of the model is verified by finite element analysis (FEA). The relative error of the rotational displacement is less than 1.8% even if the rotational angle reaches ±20° the relative errors for the two components of center shift are less than 6% and 4% respectively, in the case of typical but general configurations and loads.

Modeling and Analysis of Beam Flexure Based Double Parallel Guiding Mechanisms: A Modified Pseudo-Rigid-Body Approach

2016 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pengbo Liu ◽  
Peng Yan
Keyword(s):  
Rigid Body ◽  
Axial Force ◽  
Compliant Mechanisms ◽  
Parametric Method ◽  
Nonlinear Effects ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Modeling And Analysis ◽  
Design And Optimization ◽  
Accurate Model ◽  
Characteristic Radius

In the present paper, we take the complaint double parallel guiding mechanism as a particular case study to investigate a modified pseudo-rigid-body (MPRB) modeling approach for beam flexure based mechanisms by considering the nonlinear effects of the center-shift and the load-stiffening. In particular, through incorporating the elastic stretch of the beam flexure into the linear Bernoulli-Euler equation, a more accurate model of the beam flexure is derived. Accordingly an MPRB model for a beam flexure is established, which consists of two rigid links joined at a revolute joint and a torsional spring along the beam. Different from traditional PRB model, the location of the torsion spring is not only determined by the characteristic radius factor, but also a purely elastic stretch under the action of the axial force. Meanwhile, both the characteristic radius factor and the equivalent stiffness of the beam flexure are no longer constant values, but affected by the applied general tip load, especially the axial force. Based on the analysis results of a beam flexure, we obtain a more accurate model of the double parallel guiding mechanisms, which is further verified by the finite element analysis (FEA) results. The proposed MPRB model provides a more parametric method to predict the performance characteristics such as deformation capability, stiffness variation, as well as error motions of the beam flexure based complaint mechanisms, and offers a new look into the design and optimization of beam-based compliant mechanisms.

scholarly journals A New Approach of Soft Joint Based on a Cable-Driven Parallel Mechanism for Robotic Applications

Mathematics ◽  
2021 ◽  
Vol 9 (13) ◽  
pp. 1468
Author(s):  
Luis Nagua ◽  
Carlos Relaño ◽  
Concepción A. Monje ◽  
Carlos Balaguer
Keyword(s):  
Parallel Mechanism ◽  
Degrees Of Freedom ◽  
Kinematic Model ◽  
Experimental Tests ◽  
Humanoid Robots ◽  
Inverse Kinematic ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
New Approach ◽  
Flexible Polymer ◽  
The Mathematical Model

A soft joint has been designed and modeled to perform as a robotic joint with 2 Degrees of Freedom (DOF) (inclination and orientation). The joint actuation is based on a Cable-Driven Parallel Mechanism (CDPM). To study its performance in more detail, a test platform has been developed using components that can be manufactured in a 3D printer using a flexible polymer. The mathematical model of the kinematics of the soft joint is developed, which includes a blocking mechanism and the morphology workspace. The model is validated using Finite Element Analysis (FEA) (CAD software). Experimental tests are performed to validate the inverse kinematic model and to show the potential use of the prototype in robotic platforms such as manipulators and humanoid robots.

scholarly journals Design and analysis of concrete-filled tubular flange girders under combined loading

2021 ◽  
pp. 136943322110015
Author(s):  
Rana Al-Dujele ◽  
Katherine Ann Cashell
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element ◽  
Axial Force ◽  
Failure Modes ◽  
Numerical Study ◽  
Combined Loading ◽  
Torsional Stiffness ◽  
Fe Model ◽  
Combined Effects ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Hollow Section

This paper is concerned with the behaviour of concrete-filled tubular flange girders (CFTFGs) under the combination of bending and tensile axial force. CFTFG is a relatively new structural solution comprising a steel beam in which the compression flange plate is replaced with a concrete-filled hollow section to create an efficient and effective load-carrying solution. These members have very high torsional stiffness and lateral torsional buckling strength in comparison with conventional steel I-girders of similar depth, width and steel weight and are there-fore capable of carrying very heavy loads over long spans. Current design codes do not explicitly include guidance for the design of these members, which are asymmetric in nature under the combined effects of tension and bending. The current paper presents a numerical study into the behaviour of CFTFGs under the combined effects of positive bending and axial tension. The study includes different loading combinations and the associated failure modes are identified and discussed. To facilitate this study, a finite element (FE) model is developed using the ABAQUS software which is capable of capturing both the geometric and material nonlinearities of the behaviour. Based on the results of finite element analysis, the moment–axial force interaction relationship is presented and a simplified equation is proposed for the design of CFTFGs under combined bending and tensile axial force.

On-Site Experimental Testing to Study the Vibration of Composite Floors

2014 ◽  
Vol 601 ◽  
pp. 231-234
Author(s):  
Cristian Lucian Ghindea ◽  
Dan Cretu ◽  
Monica Popescu ◽  
Radu Cruciat ◽  
Elena Tulei
Keyword(s):  
Dynamic Characteristics ◽  
Experimental Testing ◽  
Concrete Slab ◽  
Human Perception ◽  
Experimental Tests ◽  
International Standards ◽  
Structural Element ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
Floor Slabs ◽  
Composite Floors

As a general trend, in order to reduce material consumption or to reduce the mass of the structures, composite floor slabs solutions are used to achieve large spans floor slabs. This solutions led to floors sensitive to vibrations induced generally by human activities. As a verification of the design concepts of the composite floors, usually, it is recommended a further examination of the floor after completion by experimental tests. Although the experimental values of the dynamic response of the floor are uniquely determined, the processing can take two directions of evaluation. The first direction consist in determining the dynamic characteristics of the floor and their comparison with the design values. Another way that can be followed in the processing of the experimental results is to consider the human perception and comfort to the vibration on floors. The paper aims to present a case study on a composite floor, with steel beams and concrete slab, tested on-site. Both aspects of data processing are analyzed, in terms of the structural element, and in terms of the effect on human perception and comfort. Experimentally obtained values for the dynamic characteristics of the floor are compared with numerical values from finite element analysis, while the second type of characteristic values are compared with various human comfort threshold values found in international standards.

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.

The Rod Force Law Analysis of 600MW Air Cooling Tower

2014 ◽  
Vol 945-949 ◽  
pp. 1135-1138
Author(s):  
Tao Liang ◽  
Chun Ling Meng ◽  
Yang Li ◽  
Xiu Hua Zhao
Keyword(s):  
Finite Element Analysis ◽  
Finite Element ◽  
Axial Force ◽  
Optimization Design ◽  
Cooling Tower ◽  
Air Cooling ◽  
Element Analysis ◽  
The Finite Element Analysis ◽  
The Cost

The finite element analysis of large air cooling tower was carried out using ABAQUS. On the basis of strength above,8 types of the axial force are analyzed and summarized, find valuable rules, and put forward the further optimization design. So that it can satisfy the strength and stability of air cooling tower, the structure is more reasonable, reduce weight, reduce the cost.

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