Design synthesis of multistable compliant structures

Abstract

This paper presents a methodology and an automation tool to synthesize multistable equilibrium systems (MSEs) based on an optimization method that searches for the best topologies for desired MSE system characteristics. The MSE systems generated are composed of interconnected compliant beams. The design methodology involves separate modules on representation, generation, evaluation and guidance. The algorithm is implemented in MATLAB by using a genetic algorithm (GA) as the search technique and finite element method (using ANSYS) for analysis. Results obtained for case studies on bistable systems show that a variety of topologies are created to meet the design goals. Copyright © 2004 by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Inc. All rights reserved.