Creation and validation of a numerical model for the analysis of bending patterns of flexural laparoscopic grasper fingers

A series of analytical models are created to predict the bending behavior of novel flexural laparoscopic fingers. These models predict behavior and stresses as a function of finger geometry and actuation force. A model is first created for a blade flexure concept and is used to prove the concept impractical, eliminating unnecessary fabrication and testing. Another model is created for an initially curved flexure concept and predicts the success of the model. These fingers are prototyped and tested, confirming the analytical model. The same model predicts the benefits of a modified initially curved flexure and is the basis for the decision to move forward with that concept.

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Mechanical Engineering.

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2011

Author dc:creator

• Westwood, Mitchell (Mitchell T.)

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Alexander H. Slocum.

• Mechanical Engineering.

Statement dc:rights

• M.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/68929

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/68929