An Oldham coupling is a constant velocity rotational transmission between two misaligned but parallel axis. Conventionally, this coupling uses two sliding contact prismatic joints, in which friction, wear, backlash and lubrication is unavoidable. Conversion to a compliant mechanism, in which motion is accomplished by elastic deformation instead, would eliminate all these drawbacks. Within PME, such a coupling is designed already. However, it was observed that it does not perform well for higher velocities and accelerations. Furthermore, it was indicated that little research is available about the dynamic behaviour of compliant mechanisms at all.
In this thesis, the dynamic performance of the family of compliant Oldham couplings is analysed and predicted. A straightforward generic analysis method is proposed, based on multibody dynamics. A case study is performed on the existing compliant design to validate the proposed modelling techniques. Its dynamic performance is evaluated experimentally and its failure mechanisms are indicated. Based on the gained knowledge, design improvements are proposed. Finally, this work now facilitates the design and implementation of compliant Oldham couplings in dynamic applications.