Computational Models for Design and Analysis of Compliant Mechanisms

iv ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS I would like to express my appreciation to those who supported me through my thesis research. First I would like to thank Dr. Kok-Meng Lee for giving me an opportunity to participate in this project. His inspiring advices and constant encouragement have so much influence on the accomplishment of my Ph. D. thesis. The most important thing that I learned from him is his philosophy on critical thinking and professional attitude. I would also like to thank him for giving me several chances to present my research topic in international conferences. Second, I would like to acknowledge the support and suggestions of my reading committee, Thomas Sean for system transportation and technical assistance. Most of the compliant structures are fabricated in the machine shop in MRDC building. I would like to thank Zi-Yen Ng for his assistance in programming the CNC code and Mati Chessin for finger bracket fabrication. Technical suggestions from machine shop staff, John Graham, Tommy, Jimmy, are also appreciated. I would like to extend my thankfulness to the following fellow students, give me valuable advices about my research. Finally I would like to thank my parents Kuo-Lien Lan and Chou-Mei Liau, who v gave me support through all these years. My junior brother, Shau-Yu Lan, has accompanied me and gave me support on my research. I would like to express my deepest appreciation to my family.