Topology synthesis of large-displacement compliant mechanisms

This paper describes the use of topology optimization as a synthesis tool f or the design of large-displacement compliant mechanisms. An objective func tion for the synthesis of large-displacement mechanisms is proposed togethe r with a formulation for synthesis of path-generating compliant mechanisms. The responses of the compliant mechanisms are modelled using a total Lagra ngian finite element formulation, the sensitivity analysis is performed usi ng the adjoint method and the optimization problem is solved using the meth od of moving asymptotes. Procedures to circumvent some numerical problems a re discussed. Copyright (C) 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.