Development of a two-degree-of-freedom actuator utilizing compliant bearings

Compliant mechanisms are gaining more attention thanks to their ability to provide precise, repeatable motion. Actuators can convert other forms of energy into mechanical energy. Among them, electromagnetic actuators are superior due to their moderate force sensitivity, long stroke length, etc. In this study, the synthesis of a Two-Degree-of- Freedom (2-DOF) actuator utilizing a compliant bearing to provide independent translational and rotational motions is proposed. The workspace of the actuator is verified through simulation in ANSYS. From the simulation results, the design can provide a workspace of up to 7.285 mm in translational and 14.42° in rotation with respect to a 37.63 N force and 0.855 Nm torque. A prototype of the actuator is manufactured and tested for functionality. Due to the limitation of the power supply, the prototype can verify the performance of the actuator over a small range of workspace. Despite the significant deviation between simulated and experimental results in translational motion and low repeatability in rotational motion, the 2-DOF actuator demonstrates its ability to deliver two independent motions.