Comparison of Concentrated and Distributed Compliant Elements in a 3D Printed Gripper

Compliant elements overcome many of the shortfalls using 3D printing to create mechanisms, as print artefacts such ‘stair stepping’ can cause issues with conventional joints. One key decisions when designing a compliant mechanism is choosing either concentrate compliance into small region that resembles hinge, or distribute it over larger area. This research details simulated deformation and stress difference between these two types for printed gripper. Results show same gripper deformation, distributed element experiences much less stress, at expense stiffness in secondary loading directions.