A compliant mechanical amplifier (CMA) based on the new topology is designed to amplify the stroke of a piezoelectric actuator. The new CMA can convert the motion generated by a PZT actuator with a large amplification ratio in a very compact size, and it has a high natural frequency (573 Hz) and no lateral displacement.

The amplification mechanism based on the compliant mechanism is a special type of compliant mechanism with a proper design of topology and geometry. The design goal is to achieve a large amplification ratio that can, however, compromise the generating force or the natural frequency of an amplification mechanism.

These mechanisms have problems such as the presence of a lateral displacement and/or a low natural frequency. Specifically, the following issues are there:

1. The topology synthesis of mechanical amplifiers,

2. The design of the flexure hinges for CMA, and

3. The fine-tuning of the design parameters

Topology of mechanical amplifiers thus contains the fundamental features that are responsible for the characteristics and performances of mechanical amplifiers.

Want to learn about compliant mechanisms? Contact the experts at CMDE Labs and explore more.