Thermal and Force Load Isolation

Fall 2025
Thermal and Force Load Isolation - Image 1
Waterjet
Constraint-Based Design

Prototype

• Designed a flexure-based kinematic coupling that provides exact 6 DOF constraint without over-constraining the system.

• By utilizing tangential flexures, the design accommodates radial thermal expansion while keeping the payload perfectly centered.

• Fabricated a functional prototype using acrylic and polypropylene to validate the design's ability to maintain optical centering during thermal expansion.