Initial curvature and centroid positioning effects on cross-axis flexural pivots accuracy

Abstract

Cross-axis flexural pivots have been implemented in a variety of applications and many studies have been focused on their accuracy. In this investigation, initial curvature of flexible elements and positioning of their centroids are exploited to improve the rotational performance of the cross-axis pivot. A parametric geometry based on two design variables is developed and proper accuracy criteria are introduced. Rotational performance is evaluated by means of the chained beam constraint model and by nonlinear numerical simulations. Accuracy, stiffness and stress maps are presented. • The design of high-accuracy cross-axis flexural pivots is addressed. • Initial curvature and centroids positioning are exploited to improve accuracy. • A 2-DoF parametric geometry and specific accuracy criteria are introduced. • Accuracy is evaluated by chained beam constraint model and nonlinear FEA. • Accuracy, stiffness and stress design maps are presented.