Design and analysis of a two-stage constant-torque flexure hinge (TS-CTFH) based on fixed-rotation constrained circular-arc segments

<p>This study proposes a pseudo-rigid-body model (4bar-PRBM) for a fixed-rotation constrained circular-arc flexible segment and obtains characteristic parameters expressions using <span class="inline-formula"><i>s</i></span> as a variable. Then, the superposit...

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Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: C. Li, L. Qiu, Y. Yu, C. Jiang, S. Dai
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Copernicus Publications 2025-05-01
Series:Mechanical Sciences
Online Access:https://ms.copernicus.org/articles/16/227/2025/ms-16-227-2025.pdf
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Summary:<p>This study proposes a pseudo-rigid-body model (4bar-PRBM) for a fixed-rotation constrained circular-arc flexible segment and obtains characteristic parameters expressions using <span class="inline-formula"><i>s</i></span> as a variable. Then, the superposition principle of circular-arc segments is proposed, leading to the development of a novel two-stage constant-torque flexure hinge (TS-CTFH). With the dimension parameter <span class="inline-formula"><i>s</i></span> as a variable, TS-CTFH with different constant-torque output (<span class="inline-formula"><i>T</i><sub>id1</sub></span> and <span class="inline-formula"><i>T</i><sub>id2</sub></span>) is optimized, which enhances the applicability of the hinge. The accuracy of theoretical analysis and the feasibility of the design scheme are ultimately validated through finite-element analysis (FEA) and testing. The novel TS-CTFH offers a proficient solution for design of grippers, joint rehabilitation devices, and assistive aids for human activities. Simultaneously, the four-bar PRBM offers a user-friendly tool for designing compliant constant-torque mechanisms (CCTMs) with circular-arc segments.</p>
ISSN:2191-9151
2191-916X