A procedure for the optimal synthesis of planar mechanisms based on non-linear position problems

Abstract

The present paper describes a procedure for the optimal dimensional synthesis of mechanisms which is based on the solution of non-linear position problems. Planar mechanisms are modelled very easily by means of finite elements of bi-hinged rod type. The judicious choice of constraint conditions makes possible the solution of classical position problems: initial, finite-displacement, deformed and static-equilibrium problems, as well as the main types of dimensional synthesis: path generation, functions, rigid body guidance, mixed, and multiple. A single synthesis error function applies to all these types, and moreover is general since it is valid for mechanisms of any configuration. This function is based on the idea that the best mechanism for the given synthesis conditions is the one that least needs to be deformed when it is obliged to satisfy them exactly, to which end the elastic deformation of the elements is permitted. © 1997 by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.