A three degree-of-freedom (3DOF) pseudo-rigid-body model (PRBM) has been developed and used in the design of a new class of self-retracting fully compliant bistable micromechanism (SRFBM). The SRFBM provides small-displacement linear travel bistability and is suitable for low-power microswitching applications. The design process involved a combination of single and multiple degree-of-freedom PRBM and finite element models to quickly proceed from a concept rigid-body mechanism to fully compliant fabrication-ready geometry. The 3DOF model presented here was developed to more accurately model the behavior of the tensural pivots—a new class of compliant segment used to avoid combined compressive loading of flexible segments. Four SRFBM designs were fabricated and tested for bistability, on-chip actuation, critical force, and fatigue tests. These tests validate the models used in the design process and demonstrate the functionality and reliability of the SRFBM.
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e-mail: gtg023d@prism.gatech.edu
e-mail: lhowell@byu.edu
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July 2005
Technical Papers
A Three Degree-of-Freedom Model for Self-Retracting Fully Compliant Bistable Micromechanisms
Nathan D. Masters,
e-mail: gtg023d@prism.gatech.edu
Nathan D. Masters
Georgia Institute of Technology, 326714 Georgia Tech Station, Atlanta, GA 30332-1125
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Larry L. Howell
e-mail: lhowell@byu.edu
Larry L. Howell
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602
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Nathan D. Masters
Georgia Institute of Technology, 326714 Georgia Tech Station, Atlanta, GA 30332-1125
e-mail: gtg023d@prism.gatech.edu
Larry L. Howell
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT 84602
e-mail: lhowell@byu.edu
Contributed by the Mechanisms and Robotics Committee for publication in the JOURNAL OF MECHANICAL DESIGN. Manuscript received February 10, 2004; revised April 27, 2004. Associate Editor: S. G. K. Anathasuresh.
J. Mech. Des. Jul 2005, 127(4): 739-744 (6 pages)
Published Online: June 27, 2005
Article history
Received:
February 10, 2004
Revised:
April 27, 2004
Online:
June 27, 2005
Citation
Masters, N. D., and Howell, L. L. (June 27, 2005). "A Three Degree-of-Freedom Model for Self-Retracting Fully Compliant Bistable Micromechanisms ." ASME. J. Mech. Des. July 2005; 127(4): 739–744. https://doi.org/10.1115/1.1828463
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