title: Bistable Mechanisms for Space Applications.
abstract: Compliant bistable mechanisms are monolithic devices with two stable equilibrium positions separated by an unstable equilibrium position. They show promise in space applications as nonexplosive release mechanisms in deployment systems, thereby eliminating friction and improving the reliability and precision of those mechanical devices. This paper presents both analytical and numerical models that are used to predict bistable behavior and can be used to create bistable mechanisms in materials not previously feasible for compliant mechanisms. Materials compatible with space applications are evaluated for use as bistable mechanisms and prototypes are fabricated in three different materials. Pin-puller and cutter release mechanisms are proposed as potential space applications.
authors.affiliation: Vehicle Systems Division, Aerospace Corporation, El Segundo, CA, United States of America.
authors.forename: Shannon A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Zirbel
authors.affiliation: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States of America.
authors.forename: Kyler A
authors.initials: KA
authors.lastname: Tolman
authors.affiliation: Department of Mechanical, Industrial, and Manufacturing Engineering, The University of Toledo, Toledo, OH, United States of America.
authors.forename: Brian P
authors.initials: BP
authors.lastname: Trease
authors.affiliation: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, UT, United States of America.
authors.forename: Larry L
authors.identifier: http://orcid.org/0000-0001-8132-8822
authors.initials: LL
authors.lastname: Howell
mesh_terms: D004867:Equipment Design; D005118:Extraterrestrial Environment; D055595:Mechanical Phenomena; D008962:Models, Theoretical