Session: MR-01-02 Mechanisms Synthesis & Analysis

Paper Number: 71616

Start Time: August 18, 10:00 AM

71616 - Type Synthesis of Long Symmetric Planar Shape-Morphing Mechanism Arrays 

This paper describes a novel type synthesis methodology for creating planar shape-morphing mechanism chains of any length with specified mobility (degree-of-freedom). It is expected that this will be of use in designing complex shape-morphing objects. The methodology is based on using graph theory in conjunction with symmetry theory for borders (Frieze groups). These mechanisms combine single loop chains using translations, reflections, glide reflections, and two-fold rotations. These operations produce mechanism topologies (graphs) that have frieze group symmetries. Using the seven known frieze group symmetries, mobility results are predicted using Kutzbach's equation.  It is shown that the methodology can produce chains of a variety of lengths and mobility, and these chains have symmetric topologies and that symmetric kinematics may be possible for some of the chains, which may simplify their analysis. Techniques for decreasing and increasing the mobility of the chains are discussed. Finally, a gallery of shape morphing chains, including examples from each of the seven fireze groups, is given to provide concrete illustrations of the diversity of designs generated using this methodology. The shape-morphing chains may be used singly or combined in groups to form shape morphing mechanism arrays. One strategy for combining these chains may be to align the chains with surface rulings.

Presenting Author: Craig Lusk University of South Florida

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