Design of symmetric conic-section flexure hinges based on closed-form compliance equations

The paper develops closed-form compliance equations for conic-section (circular, elliptic, parabolic and hyperbolic) flexure hinges. Finite element simulation results confirm the theoretical formulation data. The main objectives are to predict the deformation/displacement field of a flexure hinge under loading and to assess the precision of rotation for a specific conic flexure hinge. A non-dimensional analysis is carried out to discuss both problems. Conclusions are formulated regarding the performance of circular, elliptic, parabolic, and hyperbolic flexure hinges.