Ring-Based Stiffening Flexure Applied as a Load Cell With High Resolution and Large Force Range
Author(s)
Kluger, Jocelyn Maxine; Slocum, Alexander H; Sapsis, Themistoklis P.
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This paper applies linear elastic theory and Castigliano's first theorem to design nonlinear (stiffening) flexures used as load cells with both large force range and large resolution. Low stiffness at small forces causes high sensitivity, while high stiffness at large forces prevents over-straining. With a standard 0.1 lm deflection sensor, the nonlinear load cell may detect 1% changes in force over five orders of force magnitude. In comparison, a traditional linear load cell functions over only three orders of magnitude. We physically implement the nonlinear flexure as a ring that increasingly contacts rigid surfaces with carefully chosen curvatures as more force is applied. We analytically describe the load cell performance as a function of its geometry. We describe methods for manufacturing the flexure from a monolithic part or multiple parts. We experimentally verify the theory for two load cells with different parameters.
Date issued
2017-06Department
Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Mechanical Engineering; Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Department of Ocean EngineeringJournal
Journal of Mechanical Design
Publisher
ASME International
Citation
Kluger, Jocelyn M., Alexander H. Slocum, and Themistoklis P. Sapsis. “Ring-Based Stiffening Flexure Applied as a Load Cell With High Resolution and Large Force Range.” Journal of Mechanical Design 139, no. 10 (August 30, 2017): 103501. © 2017 by ASME
Version: Final published version
ISSN
1050-0472