Visual-based methods in compliant mechanism optimization

Abstract

The purpose of this research is to generate visual-based methods for optimizing compliant mechanisms (CMs). Visual-based optimization methods use graphical representations (3-D plots) of CM performance to convey design information. They have many advantages over traditional optimization methods, such as enabling judgment-based design tradeoffs and ensuring robustness of optimized solutions. This research fulfilled the primary aims of determining (1) how to best convey decision-driving design information, and (2) how to interpret and analyze the results of a visual-based optimization method. Other useful tools resulting from this work are (3) a nondimensional model of a CM (a compliant four-bar mechanism) that may be used to maximize the information density of optimization plots, and (4) a new model of a compliant beam that establishes a link between beam stiffness and instant center location. This work presents designers with an optimization tool that may either be used to augment or replace current optimization methods.