3-D Stress Analysis of Pneumatic Pen Cylinder with Preload in Mounting Nut

As a necessary component in pneumatic muscle, minimum switch and minimum mechanical hand, pen cylinder used as prime actuator possesses the characteristics of high speed actuation possible, easy installation, improved wear resistance and so on. The construction and working principle of the pen cylinder are introduced. Using 3-D stress field finite element analysis (FEA) method, the stress field distribution of pen cylinder with preload in mounting nut is analyzed. Simulation results are presented. The stress characteristics are compared between different preload in mounting nut and thickness of mounting bracket.