The Boeing Company
Pivot flexure with uniform moment stiffness

Abstract:

Cross beam flexure pivot assembly includes a first housing member having a first arcuate member a second housing member having a second arcuate member wherein the first arcuate member extends into the second housing member and the second arcuate member extends into the first housing member. First, second and, third beams extend in first direction and fourth and fifth beams extend in a second direction all secured to first and second arcuate members. A first axis, second axis and radial axis of the first and second housing members form a common point of intersection. Total of cross section areas of beams extending in first direction and of beams extending in second direction are equal providing equal linear stiffness in both directions. Total moment stiffness about first axis equals total moment stiffness about the second axis.