Synthesis of compliant mechanisms in force measurement and weighing technology for precision applications

• Applicants: Professor Dr.-Ing. Thomas Fröhlich; Professorin Dr.-Ing. Lena Zentner
• Subject Area: Measurement Systems
• Term: since 2021
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 461797997

The goal of the project is the development and experimental validation of model-based synthesis methods and synthesis guidelines for compliant mechanisms in force measurement and weighing technology. For the first time, an analytical model based on fundamental research into physical effects, such as elastic after-effects and temperature dependencies, will be build up. Based on the analysis of the state of the art, it becomes clear that although synthesis approaches for compliant mechanisms exist, according to the current state of knowledge, this does not apply to strain gauge based deformation bodies in force measurement and weighing technology. Concrete systems in this field have specific requirements for the design of the compliant mechanisms, so there is a particular need to develop novel synthesis methods. The proposed project is intended to make a significant contribution to closing this gap in research. The specific mechanisms are to be examined metrologically in order to examine whether the uncertainties of the force measurements can be reduced by the desired factor 10 with the help of the developed models and approaches. Since the quality of the mechanical manufacturing has a considerable influence on the movement properties of individual flexure hinges and entire compliant mechanisms, measurements should be carried out to quantify the effects of the manufacturing tolerances on the mechanisms. This will be provided in the form of a robustness and sensitivity analysis. After the developed analytical model has been metrologically verified, synthesis methods are developed. Thus, novel solutions for the design of compliant mechanisms as force sensors are to be found, for example, to drastically reduce the complexity of the geometries used. Finally, on the basis of the developed synthesis methods or tools are to be designed which enable and support the interpretation of the compliant mechanisms as force sensors in future applications.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants