Graph-based Optimization of Continuous Extrusion Path in FRP-AM for Compliant Mechanism Fabrication

Abstract

Compliant mechanisms, which realize a functional mechanism by designed deformations where that material deform elastically, is expected to reduce number of mechanical parts or assembly costs. Fiber reinforced polymers – additive manufacturing (FRP-AM) can expand the compliant mechanism functions. The purpose of this study is to propose the structure optimization method for compliant mechanisms considering its continuous fiber path in FRP-AM. In the proposed optimization method, a compliant mechanism structure is represented as a geometric graph and the optimum structure is searched with genetic programming, which is one of the metaheuristic methods. A case study is conducted using a gripper with compliant mechanism.