| 摘要 |
<p>A hinge joint is capable of bending along its length about a series of points lying within the member so as to give a curve or approximate curve equivalent to a bend about a centre of curvature lying outside the member. A typical joint is showing a series of four vertebrae threaded by a common spine member (16) made of a resilient deformable material. The spine is also threaded by a pair of parallel leaf springs (40, 42) which are gripped in end fittings (50, 80). When the joint is curved, the vertebrae pivot on one another via the portions (24) and the flexing of the leaf springs causes them to rub frictionally on the radially outer faces of the slots in the vertebrae through which the springs extend, and this friction maintains the joint in a curved position but allows it to be reset as required. An elongated slot (70) in one or both ends of each spring at its anchorage point in the end fittings allows for the curvature but limits the extent possible.</p> |
