Designing a monolithic tip-tilt-piston flexure manipulator

Abstract

This paper deals with the design of a monolithic tip-tilt-piston flexure manipulator for high-precision applications. The manipulator is first proposed with consideration of actuation isolation, which is a symmetrical and compact design and can be monolithically fabricated without using additive manufacturing. Kinematic and kinetostatic models are then analytically derived for quick parameter assessments. A case study is discussed finally, where a monolithic prototype has been made using CNC milling machining, comparisons among analytical, FEA and testing results are also undertaken.