Structural optimization for flexure-based parallel mechanisms - Towards achieving optimal dynamic and stiffness properties

Flexure-based parallel mechanisms (FPMs) are a type of compliant mechanisms that consist of a rigid end-effector that is articulated by several parallel, flexible limbs (a.k.a. sub-chains). Existing design methods can enhance the FPMs' dynamic and stiffness properties by conducting a size optimization on their sub-chains. A similar optimization process, however, was not performed for their sub-chains' topology, and this may severely limit the benefits of a size optimization. Thus, this paper proposes to use a structural optimization approach to synthesize and optimize the topology, shape and size of the FPMs' sub-chains. The benefits of this approach are demonstrated via the design and development of a planar X - Y - theta(z), FPM. A prototype of this FPM was evaluated experimentally to have a large workspace of 1.2 mm x 1.2 mm x 6 degrees, a fundamental natural frequency of 102 Hz, and stiffness ratios that are greater than 120. The achieved properties show significant improvement over existing 3-degrees-of-freedom compliant mechanisms that can deflect more than 0.5 mm and 0.5 degrees. These compliant mechanisms typically have stiffness ratios that are less than 60 and a fundamental natural frequency that is less than 45 Hz. (C) 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.