Coarse Information Design

We study an information design problem with continuous state and discrete signal space. We find that the designer's interim value function affects the solution only through its curvature. There is a dual relation between the prior distribution and the marginal value function. Under convex value functions, the optimal information structure is interval-partitional. Moreover, in logconcave environments, a center of scrutiny emerges and information becomes coarser for states farther from it. We locate the scrutiny center and provide comparative statics on information structure with respect to prior distributions and value functions. The analysis can be extended to S-shaped value functions

FlexDelta: A flexure-based fully decoupled parallel xyzxyz positioning stage with long stroke

Decoupled parallel $xyz$ positioning stages with large stroke have been desired in high-speed and precise positioning fields. However, currently such stages are either short in stroke or unqualified in parasitic motion and coupling rate. This paper proposes a novel flexure-based decoupled parallel $xyz$ positioning stage (FlexDelta) and conducts its conceptual design, modeling, and experimental study. Firstly, the working principle of FlexDelta is introduced, followed by its mechanism design with flexure. Secondly, the stiffness model of flexure is established via matrix-based Castigliano's second theorem, and the influence of its lateral stiffness on the stiffness model of FlexDelta is comprehensively investigated and then optimally designed. Finally, experimental study was carried out based on the prototype fabricated. The results reveal that the positioning stage features centimeter-stroke in three axes, with coupling rate less than 0.53%, parasitic motion less than 1.72 mrad over full range. And its natural frequencies are 20.8 Hz, 20.8 Hz, and 22.4 Hz for $x$, $y$, and $z$ axis respectively. Multi-axis path tracking tests were also carried out, which validates its dynamic performance with micrometer error