Comparative Analysis of Flexure Hinge Design: Stress and Deflection Perspectives

Flexure hinges are brilliant mechanical components that provide flexibility and precision while allowing controlled movement or rotation between two components. Because these devices can provide precise, smooth motion without the limitations of conventional joints, they are widely used in a variety of industries. This paper presents the comparison of deflection capabilities of different flexure hinges using ANSYS workbench. This study investigates and compares the stress and deflection characteristics of four distinct flexure hinge designs: rectangular, circular, elliptical, and spherical. Utilizing finite element analysis, stress and deflection behaviors were analyzed to discern the mechanical performance of each hinge design. Results reveal varying stress distributions and deflection profiles among the designs. The rectangular hinge exhibited the lowest stress levels due to its uniform geometry, while the spherical hinge displayed the highest stress and deflection, attributed to its continuous curvature. These findings underscore the significant influence of geometric shapes on the mechanical behavior of flexure hinges, providing valuable insights for optimizing hinge designs in diverse applications.