Model order reduction methods and their possible application in compliant mechanisms

Model order reduction (MOR) is commonly used to approximate large-scale linear time-invariant dynamical systems. A new feed unit based on a compliant mechanism consisting of flexure hinges can be described by a discrete system of n ordinary differential equations. A projection framework using modal and Krylov subspace techniques is applied to reduce the order of the system to lower computational cost and make the model feasible for control, analysis and optimization. Single flexure hinges are investigated numerical, analytical and experimental and compared to reduced models via modal and tangential Krylov subspace methods regarding the first eigenfrequency. (© 2012 Wiley-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim)