Brigham Young University

Brent Weight

Larry L Howell

Spencer P Magleby

Chris A Mattson

Scott Lyon

Deanne Clements

Bradford J Brown

An apparatus () that is capable of a first stable configuration and a second stable configuration is disclosed. The bistable mechanism () has a leg () that is coupled on one end by a base member () and on the other end by a shuttle (). The leg () stores potential energy as it is deflected. The potential energy stored in the leg () has a maximum potential energy position with a low potential energy position on either side of the maximum. An apparatus and method are also disclosed for a latching mechanism () and the associated method. The latching mechanism () is comprised of a grasping member (), a lock slider (), and a detent slider (). These three members () operate together to induce a locked configuration and an unlocked configuration by actuating the lock slider () in a single direction.

Dual position linear displacement micromechanism

A constant force apparatus having a cam () with a non-planar surface (), a compliant member () with a free end (), a fixed end (), and an intermediate contact area () therebetween, wherein the free end () of the compliant member () (slidably engages the non-planar surface () of the cam () and the compliant member () provides a substantially constant reaction force at the intermediate contact area () regardless of displacement () of the intermediate contact area (). The compliant member () can further include a material capable of conducting electricity for use as an electrical contact. The apparatus can further comprise a docking station for use with a dockable unit to accept the dockable unit and provide an electrical connection thereto.

Constant force apparatus and method

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Springville, UT, United States of America

Brent Weight