Patent ID: 8827586
Filing Date: 2014-09-09
Classification: B64C,F16F,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A mechanical linkage adapted to be axially loaded in tension or compression, comprising: first and second end members; a pair of generally parallel, oppositely curved, arcuate beams, having a long dimension aligned with a load axis, the first and second end members disposed at opposing longitudinal ends of the beams, the beams interconnecting the first and second end members and defining a lateral space therebetween, the beams configured to deflect in first respective opposing directions under a compressive load applied to the end members, and to deflect in second respective opposing directions under a tensile load applied to the end members; a plurality of alternating fingers, oriented substantially transverse to the load axis, extending from each beam into the lateral space and arranged in adjacent pairs of fingers, the fingers associated with each arcuate beam being configured to move laterally in opposing directions in concert with the respective opposite deflection of the associated arcuate beam; and a damping member, attached between each finger of each adjacent pair of fingers, within the lateral space, each damping member configured to resist the lateral motion of the adjacent fingers and thereby absorb a portion of the axial load upon the mechanical linkage.