Iris Mechanism Generator (Variant 2)

This model is part of a series of Iris Mechanisms I began designing during the pandemic, and it now receives an update after several years.

The original model uploaded a few years ago is available here:
🔗 Iris Generator Model-2

Unfortunately, due to GrabCAD’s community policies, it has been flagged as “tainted due to a violation of community guidelines” and is no longer publicly visible unless accessed directly.

🛠️ About this Variant
This version features flexible leaves that overlap each other and are inspired by this YouTube post:
🔗 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tkaN07fCG3w

Unlike other iris designs with rigid pivots or sliding slots, this variant proposes a softer, layered motion between blades. The number of leaves is calculated automatically depending on the dimensions of the mechanism, particularly the inner and outer radius.

This model includes three different configurations, each with a distinct leaf width (r_ext_blade). The shape of each leaf is defined by a sketch that can be easily modified to suit your application.

Each leaf requires two pivot points:
- One at the base, to enable revolute rotation
- Another at the tip, to connect with a sliding mechanism (a slotted guide or equivalent linkage)

🔁 Important: Due to how SolidWorks handles the blade instances in the assembly, they don’t appear in their final stacked order. Make sure to assemble them physically following the correct sequence for proper motion.

⚙️ Notes
Be sure to open the assembly file, as the parts are dimensionally linked to the assembly (parametric relationships are defined there).

Feel free to use or modify this model however you'd like.
(Let’s hope GrabCAD doesn’t flag this one again 😅)