Theoretical model of adaptive fiber tip positioner based on flexible hinges and levers

In this manuscript, we establish a model and theoretically investigate the novel structure of AFTP designed by ourselves. We analyze each sub-structure of the new type of AFTP and firstly use the software of ANSYS to simulate the deformation of the flexible hinge under the external force. The result shows that the deformation of the flexible hinge is mainly from and almost linear to the middle part. Further, after considering the influence of the levers and piezoelectric actuators, we setup the theoretical model in which the displacement is only relative to the ratio of the lever R. With the optimal value of R, we can get the relative largest displacement of the end cap when the other parameters are confirmed. As the maximal voltage applied on the piezoelectric stacks actuators (PSA) is finite, the largest displacement of the end cap is restricted. Neglecting the influence of the effective friction force (Ff) of inner-system, the relationship between the largest displacement of the end cap and the ratio (R) is derived numerically. From the calculated results, we get the largest displacement is about 67 μm with R of 6.9. This work provides a reference for structure optimization of AFTP based on flexible hinges and levers.