Compliant Mechanism Design

MAE C294A.

Compliant Mechanism Design . (Prof.

Hopkins, J.) Formerly numbered 294A.

Lecture, four hours; outside study, eight hours.

Requisite: linear algebra.

Advanced compliant mechanism synthesis approaches, modeling techniques, and optimization tools.

Fundamentals of flexible constraint theory, principles of constraint-based design, projective geometry, screw theory kinematics, and freedom and constraint topologies.

Applications: precision motion stages, general purpose flexure bearings, microstructural architectures, MEMs, optical mounts, and nanoscale positioning systems.

Hands-on exercises include build- your-own flexure kits, CAD and FEA simulations, and term project.

Concurrently scheduled with course C162B.

Letter grading.