Design of a spatial compliant translational joint

This paper presents the design of a novel compliant translational joint with large stiffness ratio and small axis drift. The characteristics of compliant translational joints based on a leaf-spring type joint are investigated. Several types of constructions are analyzed. A novel three-dimensional compliant translational joint is proposed and a design analysis is conducted based on the parametric models. Subsequently, a design optimization is employed with the aid of finite element method. Then, a prototype of the optimized design is fabricated by 3D printing, and tests of specified properties are conducted. Comparisons of the experimental results and simulation results show that this new joint satisfies the design requirements.