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Topology Synthesis
The goal of topology synthesis is to identify the optimum number
and connectivity of structural elements
to achieve specified motion requirements. Topology synthesis is a critical stage of the design process,
due to the fact that the main performance of a compliant system is determined by its structure configuration.
The topology synthesis methods we developed are briefly introduced in the
Slide Show enclosed.
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Dimensional Synthesis
Topology optimization provides qualitative results in that it provides a kinematically functional mechanism.
It can not provide a mechanism with prescribed performance characteristics such as geometric advantage and
mechanical advantage. The goal of dimensional synthesis for compliant mechanisms is to generate a detailed
description of the structure's size and geometry for a given topology. Dimensional synthesis finalizes the
design so that the compliant mechanism satisfies the given specifications and with optimum performance such
as energy efficiency. The dimensional synthesis methods we developed are briefly introduced in the
Slide Show enclosed.
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Software Tools
In order to numerically implement the design theory, an optimization and analysis software based on Matlab platform
has been developed. The compliant mechanism is discretized with six degree of freedom frame finite elements.
The energy efficiency of the system is maximized under the reasonable physical and geometrical boundary conditions.
The specification of the mechanical advantage and geometric advantage can be reached after the convergent iterations.
A promising result with great efficiency can be found if the topology and initial conditions are reasonable.
After the optimization process, dynamic analysis will be performed so that a full understanding for the performance
of compliant mechanism can be achieved. The analyses include natural frequency and mode, static force analysis,
dynamic responses, spectrum analysis, sensitivity analysis and equivalent spring characteristic analysis. Some
friendly user graphical interfaces are shown in the
Slide Show enclosed.
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