A partially compliant four-bar mechanism consists of a rigid crank, a rigid coupler and a flexible link (a rocker) is considered and its actuation by a magnetic force drive is investigated. The magnetic force applied to the coupler or the flexible rocker is converted to a rotational motion of the crank arm. This magnetic actuation force is applied in one direction until the rocker tip reaches its limit position, then with the energy stored in the elastic rocker link, the mechanism returns to its original position resulting of a complete revolution of the crank arm. The magnetic actuation is achieved by an external electromagnet driven by a voltage source and a neodymium permanent magnet attached on the mechanism. A prototype mechanism in macro scale is manufactured and it proved the conceptual contribution of the mechanism. The magnetically actuated compliant mechanism may also find applications in micro scales, actuating the rocker with a conventional rotational comb drive.
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