Tri-stable flexure mechanism
US9406470B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 18, 2014 |
| Grant date | Aug 2, 2016 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 28, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H5/18
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Embodiments of a tri-stable flexure mechanism are described where a resilient component is present that serves as both a structural component in the kinematic chain of the mechanism and as energy storing component of the mechanism. The resilient component maintains a movable arm and an input link in either a first stable state or a second stable state when the ends of the resilient component are held in place so that the resilient component has a state of high elastic strain energy. In a third stable state, where the resilient component is in a relaxed state of lower elastic strain energy, the mechanism may be in a tripped state distinct from the closed and open states.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.