Dynamic Model of a Conjugate-Surface Flexure Hinge Considering Impacts between Cylinders

Abstract

A dynamic model of a Conjugate-Surface Flexure Hinge (CSFH) has been proposed as a component for MEMS/NEMS Technology-based devices with lumped compliance. However, impacts between the conjugate surfaces have not been studied yet and, therefore, this paper attempts to fill this gap by proposing a detailed multibody system (MBS) model that includes not only rigid-body dynamics but also elastic forces, friction, and impacts. Two models based on the Lankarani-Nikravesh constitutive law are first recalled and a new model based on the contact of cylinders is proposed. All three models are complemented by the friction model proposed by Ambrosìo. Then, the non-smooth Moreau time-stepping scheme with Coulomb friction is described. The four models are compared in different scenarios and the results confirm that the proposed model outcomes comply with the most reliable models.

Bionic Stepping Motors Driven by Piezoelectric Materials

“…In order to achieve angular displacements of piezoelectric motors, considerable efforts have been made by different researchers. For example, flexure hinges, revolute pairs, and other methods are utilized to transform linear displacements into angular displacements [37][38][39][40][41][42]. Flexure hinges are a kind of deformable mechanism to guide movements, which consist of flexible parts and rigid parts.…”

“…Flexure hinges are a kind of deformable mechanism to guide movements, which consist of flexible parts and rigid parts. The flexible parts with small stiffness and the rigid parts with large stiffness are designed and machined from a single piece of material [37][38][39][40][41][42]. With the given deformations and constraints of flexible parts, the rigid parts can move at certain degrees of freedom.…”

“…With the given deformations and constraints of flexible parts, the rigid parts can move at certain degrees of freedom. Owing to the advantages of compliant and repeatable motions, compact structures, small inertial mass, no backlash, and friction, the flexure hinges are widely utilized in piezoelectric motors, especially in stepping piezoelectric motors [37][38][39][40][41][42]. Furthermore, with the designed flexure hinges mechanisms, we can not only obtain the angular displacements but also multiply and enlarge the small deformations of piezoelectric materials [40][41][42].…”

Editorial for the Special Issue on Flexible Micromanipulators and Micromanipulation

“…This work provides a fast and accurate method for characterizing the mechanical properties of microscale objects, which can benefit various fields, including material science, biology, and chemistry. Cammarata et al [ 6 ] present a dynamic model of a conjugate-surface flexure hinge, which considers the impacts between cylinders. This work provides an improved understanding of the dynamics of flexure hinges, which is important for the design and control of micromanipulators.…”