Analysis and design of multiple input flexible link mechanisms

Abstract A method for analyzing the force-displacement characteristics of multiple input flexible link mechanisms for both the static and dynamic cases is presented. The Finite Element Method for an elastic body used in the analysis is brieflly described by making the analogy with a single-degree of freedom discrete system. The link mechanism considered is a mechanical adder, providing incremental output motion for various combinations of displacement inputs, whose pivot points have been replaced by flexible joints. Good correlation with experimental results has been obtained for the static case. Also analyzed is the dynamic response of the system. An optimum design has been obtained by varying different parameters within the limits dictated by practical design considerations.