A generalized analytical compliance model for transversely symmetric three-segment flexure hinges

This paper presents a generalized compliance model for a three-segment notch flexure hinge with transverse symmetry. This flexure hinge configuration is most frequently employed in planar-motion, small-displacement compliant mechanisms. The axial and bending compliances are derived for this flexure hinge based on the compliances of two flexure components. The derivation is generalized such that it can be applied to various segment geometries. Using this open-ended model, a three-segment right elliptical corner-filleted flexure hinge design was analyzed. This geometric configuration introduces additional geometric parameters, which can be used to optimize the compliance of the flexure hinge without modifying its gross dimensions. The results of the analysis were validated in part by modifying the geometric parameters of the center segment and elliptical corner fillets to form limiting cases corresponding to several previously investigated configurations, namely right elliptical, three-segment right circular corner-filleted, and right circular geometries. Finite element analysis simulation and experimental testing were used to further validate the three-segment right elliptical corner-filleted analytical model. Additional simulations based on the analytical model were performed to highlight the influence of geometric parameters on compliances and to investigate shear effects for short flexure hinges. (C) 2011 American Institute of Physics. [doi:10.1063/1.3656075]