I visited the Compliant Mechanisms Research group at Brigham Young University and spoke to Professor Larry Howell: https://www.compliantmechanisms.byu.edu
At the above link, you can download 3D-print files to make some of the objects in the video, plus learn more about compliant mechanisms.
What I learned about compliant mechanisms I summarize in the 8 P's of compliant mechanisms:
- Part count (reduced by having flexible parts instead of springs, hinges)
- Productions processes (many, new, different enabled by compliant designs)
- Price (reduced by fewer parts and different production processes)
- Precise Motion (no backlash, less wear, friction)
- Performance (no outgassing, doesn't require lubricant)
- Proportions (reduced through different production processes)
- Portability (lightweight due to simpler, reduced part count designs)
- Predictability (devices are reliable over a long period of time)
Special thanks to Patreon supporters: Donal Botkin, James M Nicholson, Michael Krugman, Nathan Hansen, Ron Neal, Stan Presolski, Terrance Shepherd
Animation by Alan Chamberlain