Configuration compliant tristable mechanism based on characteristics of differential compliant bistable mechanisms

Compliant tristable mechanisms have many applications in the future. However, predict the characteristic of the mechanism is the challenge for the engineers because of the nonlinear behavior. This paper introduces the design of a tristable mechanism which is comprise from the two stable mechanisms. These mechanisms are connected through a frame mass. The combination of their behaviors is assisted to predict the function of the tristable mechanism. In the investigating, the peak forces of bistable mechanisms are close to the peak force of the tristable mechanism. Their characteristics are indicated by the finite element method. The finite element method is implemented to prove the results. Strain energy is studied to explain the discrepancy of tristable and bistable behavior. The influence of parameters of frame mass is investigated. Several cases are executed to varified the consequence.