Modular design of typical rigid links in parallel kinematic machines: Classification and topology optimization

Due to the demand of reconfigurable system in parallel kinematic machines (PKMs), modular design technology is significant and necessary. However, in earlier research, the core joint modules have been concerned about rather than the customized link modules. The modular design to the typical customized links from the point of seeking optimal structures with best mechanical performances is analyzed and processed in two steps: classification and optimization. Firstly, a brief introduction to the current research status and the aims of this paper are outlined. And then, how the typical customized links classified is proposed. Next, the technology method and the iterative formula derivation process of topology optimization are described in detail. Finally, calculation models for each group of classified ones are set up and their optimal structures are achieved through topology optimization technique. The results provide useful references for reconfigurable and modular design in engineering cases. © 2012 Higher Education Press and Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg.