Design, modelling and experimentation of a novel compliant translational dwell mechanism

Abstract

A partially compliant novel translational double dwell mechanism is presented in this article. The designed mechanism consists of initially straight and preloaded pinned-pinned compliant links, rigid crank, slider-rail system and a DC motor. Slider doesn’t move until the critical buckling load is achieved and then snaps to its maximum and returns back to initial position as the crank completes a full rotation. Motion behavior of elastic members depending on the geometry and loading are investigated using Elastica theory. Kinematic analysis and dynamical model are obtained by representing the compliant pinned-pinned members as translational springs using polynomial formulation method. Mechanism behavior is also analyzed in Adams FlexView. Mechanism is built by 3D printing the flexible parts using polylactic acid (PLA). Displacement of the slider along with the deformation of buckling beams are recorded and deflection shapes are detected by machine vision measurement while the crank is subjected to complete rotation. Slider position is also recorded by a laser displacement sensor. Dynamical model results are validated by the experimental setup, machine vision measurement and Adams simulations.