Abstract

This thesis presents research on the feasibility of applying compliant-ortho-planar springs (COPS) to rotational applications. The primary motivation of this research is the application of COPS to a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The design space limitations, loading conditions, stresses, stress concentrations, and limitations of current design tools, such as pseudo-rigid-body models (PRBM) for COPS, are discussed. A new 3D PRBM is presented along with a discussion on the possible applications of such to a rotating COPS. Stress stiffening and lateral stability are two major phenomena occurring in a rotating COPS. Both phenomena are a direct result of the inertial loads a COPS would be subjected to in a rotational environment. The results show how stress stiffening and lateral buckling in the legs are influenced by design parameters. Conclusions and recommendations for further research are recommended.

Degree

College and Department

Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering and Technology; Mechanical Engineering

Rights

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