A Finite-Element-Based Method to Determine the Spatial Stiffness Properties of a Notch Hinge

Abstract

Notch hinges are flexural hinges used to make complex, precise mechanisms. They are typically modeled as single degree-of-freedom hinges with an associated joint stiffness. This is not adequate for all purposes. This paper computes the six degree-of-freedom stiffness properties of notch hinges using finite element methods. The results are parameterized in terms of meaningful design parameters.

Stiffness Analysis of a Fully Compliant Spherical Chain with Two Degrees of Freedom

“…Within the validity limits of the superposition principle (which assumes linear elastic materials and small deflections), the kinetostatic behavior of a flexural hinge in the 3D space can be deduced by the analysis of its compliance matrix [18]. With reference to Fig.…”

“…Concerning the frame dependency, as explained in [18], compliance matrices at different reference frames (e.g. from the frame S p to a generic frame S 0 ) can be related resorting to the 6 × 6 adjoint matix p T 0 :…”

A force–torque sensor based on a Stewart Platform in a near-singular configuration

“…The basic theory of flexible hinges was given by Paros and Weisbord [15], and Mclnroy and Hamann [17] have proposed the use of flexural hinges for micro-manipulation. Zhang and Fasse [18] present a finite element based method to determine the stiffness properties of a notch hinge. Champagne et al [19] describe the design, fabrication, testing and operation of a six axis force and torque dynamo-meter where the support struts are provided with flexures for two axes, with one flexure for each axis, separated by a small distance to ensure adequate longitudinal stiffness.…”

Multi-Objective Design Optimization of an Over-Constrained Flexure-Based Amplifier

“…On the other hand, researchers are also interested in the approaches to build the stiffness analytical equations of flexure hinges. The spatial stiffness matrix is built in [22] by using the finite element method. The regular circular hinge is regarded as a beam element with three nodes in [23] for the purpose of enhancing the calculation accuracy.…”