Compliant Mechanism Design

4 units · Undergraduate upper division (100-199)

Lecture, four hours; outside study, eight hours. Requisite: linear algebra. Advanced compliant mechanism synthesis approaches, modeling techniques, and optimization tools. Fundamentals of flexible constraint theory, principles of constraint-based design, projective geometry, screw theory kinematics, and freedom and constraint topologies. Applications: precision motion stages, general purpose flexure bearings, microstructural architectures, MEMs, optical mounts, and nanoscale positioning systems. Hands-on exercises include build-your-own flexure kits, CAD and FEA simulations, and term project. Concurrently scheduled with course C294A. Letter grading.