The objective of this paper is to analytically study the nonlinear behavior of variable cross-section beam flexures interconnecting an eccentric rigid body. Hamilton's principle is utilized to obtain the partial differential equations governing the nonlinear vibration of the system as well as the corresponding boundary conditions. Using a single mode approximation, the governing equations are reduced to a set of two nonlinear ordinary differential equations in terms of end displacement components of the beam which are coupled due to the presence of the transverse eccentricity. The method of multiple scales are employed to obtain parametric closed-form solutions. The obtained analytical results are compared with the numerical ones and excellent agreement is observed. These analytical expressions provide design insights for modeling and optimization of more complex flexure mechanisms for improved dynamic performances.

Keywords