FLEXIBLE MEMBER Russian patent published in 2007 - IPC F16F3/04 B60G11/14 

FIELD: mechanical engineering.

SUBSTANCE: flexible member comprises at least two springs mounted one inside the other. At least two turns of the springs are rigidly interconnected when they are preliminary tensioned. In the static condition, one of the springs undergoes compression, and the other spring undergoes stretching. The springs are made of a single blank, and end turns at one of the ends of the springs are rigidly interconnected. The turns could be also interconnected through the insert that undergoes compression. The turns may be interconnected throughout the length of the springs by means of a polymeric shell. The spring may be twisted in one direction, and the end turns are secured to the pivoting parts of the control mechanism from one side. When the parts are set in rotation in the direction of twisting of the springs, the rigidity of the flexible member increases, whereas when they rotate in the opposite direction, the rigidity decreases.

EFFECT: expanded functional capabilities.

4 cl, 11 dwg