Synthesis methodology of a compliant exact long dwell mechanism using elastica theory

Abstract

Compliant exact dwell mechanism design and its synthesis methodology are investigated. This class of compliant dwell mechanisms incorporates the buckling motion of an initially straight fixed–fixed flexible member as a follower. The initially straight flexible beam is modeled using nonlinear exact inextensible Elastica theory. The output response of a compliant long dwell mechanism is obtained using design charts for a mechanism that complies with the desired dwell time, maximum rise height and mechanism space requirements.