Design Strategies for the Topology Synthesis of Dual Input-Single Output Compliant Mechanisms

Abstract

In this paper, design strategies are presented for the topology synthesis of dual input-single output compliant mechanisms. Decomposition methods are proposed to yield tractable subproblems to achieve motion requirements. The methods make use of the single point synthesis, which effectively generates topologies satisfying the motion requirements at one point by assembling compliant building blocks. In this paper, the compliant deviation angle is proposed to measure the ability of building blocks to transmit load with minimal storage of strain energy. The design strategies are versatile in allowing the designer to incorporate auxiliary design considerations and to synthesize mechanism that traverse a locus of output displacements. The building block approach pursued in this paper provides crucial insight to augment designer understanding and ability.