A method for tuning the stiffness of building blocks for statically balanced compliant ortho-planar mechanisms

In this paper a method is demonstrated for tuning the stiffness of building blocks statically balanced compliant ortho-planar mechanisms. Three post-buckled mechanisms are proposed where flexural rigidity can be manipulated over part their length in order to tune ratio between first two critical loads. A sensitivity analysis using finite element simulation showed that best balancing performance obtained these when was maximized. The results were validated experimentally by capturing force-deflection relations.