Application of Fuzzy Set Theory to Planar and Spatial Mechanism Design

Abstract

Abstract This paper describes how Fuzzy Set Theory and Fuzzy Numbers can be applied to the synthesis of planar and spatial mechanisms. The main advantage of using Fuzzy Set Theory over other methods of mechanism synthesis is that uncertainties in positions, rotations and link lengths can be quantified using the concept of membership functions. A membership function is an explicit representation of the deviation of the value of a parameter from its specified value. Numerical examples include the synthesis of a four-bar path generating mechanism with uncertain prescribed timing as well as uncertain path points and the RSSR spatial function generating mechanism. This work is expected to be a significant contribution to optimal mechanism design.