ACTUATION AND SIMULATION OF A MINISYSTEM WITH FLEXURE HINGES

Abstract

In this paper is presented a minisystem with flexure hinges. Compliant mechanisms are jointless mechanisms that rely on elastic deformation to transmit forces and motion. Such systems are particularly amenable to embedded sensing for haptic feedback and embedded actuation with active-material actuators. The miniactuators for minisystems include elements made of so called intelligent or smart materials. In general, the compliant mechanisms are bonded or embedded piezoelectric actuators and/or sensors. The piezoceramic actuator generates a large actuating force and has a fast time response. The response of the minisystem is predicted by the finite elements method. The compliant mechanism and piezoactuator displacements are analyzed and simulated. In the end there is presented a comparison of the experimental results for the same actuator but for different types of signals with theoretical results.