In this work, a new compliant bistable mechanism design is introduced. The combined use of pseudo-rigid-body model (PRBM) and the Elastica buckling theory is presented for the first time to analyze the new design. This mechanism consists of the large deflecting straight beams, buckling beams, and a slider. The kinematic analysis of this new mechanism is studied, using nonlinear Elastica buckling beam theory, the PRBM of a large deflecting cantilever beam, the vector loop closure equations, and numerically solving nonlinear algebraic equations. A design method of the bistable mechanism in microdimensions is investigated by changing the relative stiffness of the flexible beams. The actuation force versus displacement characteristics of several cases is explored and the full simulation results of one of the cases are presented. This paper demonstrates the united application of the PRBM and the buckling Elastica solution for an original compliant mechanism kinematic analysis. New compliant mechanism designs are presented to highlight where such combined kinematic analysis is required.

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The optimum functional characteristics of suspension components, namely, linear/nonlinear spring and nonlinear damper characteristic functions are determined using simple lumped parameter models. A quarter car model is used to represent the front independent suspension, and a half car model is used to represent the rear solid axle suspension of a light commercial vehicle. The functional shapes of the suspension characteristics used in the optimisation process are based on typical shapes supplied by a car manufacturer. The complexity of a nonlinear function optimisation problem is reduced by scaling it up or down from the aforementioned shape in the optimisation process. The nonlinear optimised suspension characteristics are first obtained using lower complexity lumped parameter models. Then, the performance of the optimised suspension units are verified using the higher fidelity and more realistic Carmaker model. An interactive software module is developed to ease the nonlinear suspension optimisation process using the Matlab Graphical User Interface tool.

New classes of compliant long dwell mechanism designs are introduced, formulated, and simulated. These classes of compliant dwell mechanisms incorporate the buckling motion of flexible members. Long dwell motion is obtained throughout the buckling motion of a flexible follower. Flexible buckling members are modeled using polynomial functions fitted to nonlinear inextensible exact elastica theory. The displacement analysis of the mechanisms is done quasi-statically using loop closure theory, static equilibrium of flexible parts represented by polynomial load deflections. One example of each new mechanism and its simulation results are presented.

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