Damped flexure mount

Abstract

A dampened flexure mount is capable of enhancing the vibration isolation of sensitive equipment, including optics or electronics in aerospace and space applications. The mount incorporates two or more materials in its design, where one material imparts rigidity, while the other material imparts flex dampening properties. The mount comprises x, y, and z flexures, making it quasi-kinematic in all axes. The mount further comprises constrained layer damping in a flexure mount. A viscoelastic material is disposed in the mount, and, in some cases, is disposed in one or more of the x, y, and z flexures. Vibrational energy, instead of adversely impacting the equipment, causes shearing in the viscoelastic material. Over time, this vibrational energy transforms into heat in the viscoelastic material, damping the vibrations that could disturb the attached equipment's operation.

Description

DAMPED FLEXURE MOUNTCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of and priority to co-pending U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 698,298, filed September 24, 2024, and titled “Damped Flexure Mount.” The entire contents of the above-identified priority application are hereby fully incorporated herein by reference.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The subject matter disclosed herein is generally directed to limiting vibration transmission, and, more particularly, to vibration isolators with constrained layer dampening.BACKGROUND

[0003] Anti-vibration / dampened mounts are specialized devices that absorb vibration from cars, equipment, aircraft, spacecraft, and various other systems. These mounts are widely used in many industries to protect items from vibration, noise, heat, or other effects. Such industries include transportation, aerospace, defense, industrial, manufacturing, electronics, medical, architecture, and others.

[0004] Flexural mounts are passive mechanical structures that isolate a component from the mechanical and thermal effects of a structural support. Typically, such mounts are an elastic element that provides controlled motion. Flexural mounts are commonly employed, particularly in optics, to create quasi-kinematic supports for components. In most optical applications, the environmental conditions are often benign. However, in scenarios where applications must endure harsh vibrations, such as during a space launch, it is often desirable to attenuate this excitation originating from the base of the structure to protect the delicate optics, detectors, and other supported components. The challenge lies in achieving the right balance between rigid support and damping capabilities. Over the years, many efforts have been made to address this concern, but finding an optimal solution that can cater to both the precision required by optical or other components and the durability needed to withstand intense vibrations remains a challenge.SUMMARY

[0005] In one aspect, a three-dimensional flexure mount comprises first and second flexure layers that cooperatively provide controlled movement in x, y, and z directions. The firstflexure layer includes x-flexures and y-flexures that define a movable island portion, while the second flexure layer includes z-flexures that enable vertical movement. This configuration creates a quasi-kinematic mount that maintains precision while accommodating environmental forces.

[0006] In another aspect, the mount incorporates constrained layer damping through viscoelastic materials strategically placed within the flexure regions. The damping material, which can be positioned where flexures experience maximum strain, converts vibrational energy into heat through shear deformation, thereby protecting mounted components from harmful vibrations.

[0007] The mount may include adjustable bosses with threaded adjustment mechanisms that enable fine tip, tilt, and piston positioning of mounted components. The modular design permits fabrication as separate layers joined by fasteners, or as a monolithic structure, depending on application requirements.

[0008] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a flexure mount, including: a first flexure layer including two x-flexures therein and two y-flexures therein creating an island within the first flexure layer that is movable in an x direction based on the x-flexures and in a y direction based on the y-flexures; and a second flexure layer coupled to the island of the first flexure layer and including two z-flexures therein, the second flexure layer being movable in a z-direction based on the z-flexures, wherein a component coupled to the second flexure layer is translatable in the x, y, and z directions based on movement of the first and second flexure layers relative to the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures, respectively.

[0009] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, further including a dampening material disposed in a portion of at least one of the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures.

[0010] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the dampening material is disposed in the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures at locations where the respective flexures are closest together.

[0011] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the dampening material includes a vibration attenuating material.

[0012] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the dampening material includes a viscoelastic polymer.

[0013] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the viscoelastic polymer includes at least one of an acrylic polymer, a urethane polymer, and a silicone-based polymer.

[0014] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, further including a constraining layer disposed between the first flexure layer and the second flexure layer.

[0015] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein a surface of the island of the first flexure layer is raised with respect to surrounding surfaces of the first flexure layer.

[0016] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the first and second flexure layers are coupled together without limiting movement of the island in the x, y, or z directions.

[0017] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the first flexure layer includes a plurality of apertures therein and the second flexure layer includes a plurality of apertures therein that correspond to the apertures in the first flexure layer, the mount further including a plurality of fasteners, each fastener inserted into a respective one of the apertures in the first flexure layer and into a corresponding one of the apertures in the second flexure layer and securing the first flexure layer to a portion of the second flexure layer that is between the first flexure layer and the z-flexures of the second flexure layer.

[0018] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the second flexure layer includes at least one adjustable boss that adjusts a surface of the second flexure layer by changing a width of at least one of the z-flexures.

[0019] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, the second flexure layer including: at least one adjustable boss including a threaded aperture extending from an upper surface of the boss toward at least one of the z-flexures; and an adjustment screw threadably engaged in the aperture and configured to contact the z-flexure to adjust a position of an upper portion of the second flexure layer relative to the at least one of the z-flexures.

[0020] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the second flexure layer includes three adjustable bosses that adjust tip, tilt, and piston of a surface of the second flexure layer.

[0021] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, further including the component coupled to the second flexure layer.

[0022] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the component is an optic.

[0023] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a flexure mount, including: at least one flexure plate including two x-flexures therein, two y-flexures therein, and two z- flexures therein creating a portion within the plate that is movable in an x direction based on the x-flexures, a y direction based on the y-flexures, and a z-direction based on the z-flexures.

[0024] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the at least one flexure plate includes a first flexure plate and a second flexure plate, the first flexure plate including the two x-flexures and the two y-flexures therein, and the second flexure plate including the two z-flexures therein.

[0025] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, wherein the second flexure plate includes at least one adjustable boss that adjusts a surface of the second flexure plate by changing a width of at least one of the z-flexures.

[0026] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a mount, further including a dampening material disposed in a portion of at least one of the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures.

[0027] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a flexure mount, including: a flexure layer including at least one x-flexure therein and at least one y-flexure therein creating an island within the first flexure layer that is movable in an x direction based on the x-flexures and in a y direction based on the y-flexures; and a dampening material disposed in at least a portion of at least one of the x-flexures and the y-flexures.

[0028] In some aspects, the techniques described herein relate to a method of damping vibrations in a flexure mount, including: providing a flexure mount having at least one flexure defining a flexible region with opposing surfaces; applying a viscoelastic dampening material to the flexible region; and converting vibrational energy to thermal energy through shear deformation of the dampening material during flexural movement.

[0029] These and other aspects, objects, features, and advantages of the examples described herein will become apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art upon consideration of the following detailed description.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] An understanding of the features and advantages of the technology disclosed herein will be obtained by reference to the following detailed description that sets forth illustrative examples, in which the principles of the technology may be utilized, and the accompanying drawings of which:

[0031] Figures 1A and IB are a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view, respectively, of a flexure mount assembly comprising an xy -flexure layer and a z-flexure layer.

[0032] Figure 2A is a top perspective view of the xy-flexure layer.

[0033] Figures 2B and 2C are plan views of the xy-flexure layer depicting the y-flexures (Figure 2B) and the x-flexures (Figure 2C).

[0034] Figures 3A and 3B are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of the z- flexure layer depicting the z-flexures.

[0035] Figure 4 is a perspective view of an assembly depicting a component mounted to the flexure mount assembly, including an enlarged view of the tip, tilt, and piston adjustment of the z-flexure layer.

[0036] Figure 5 is a plan view of a damped flexure mount depicting a constrained layer dampening material in the xy-flexure layer.

[0037] The figures herein are for illustrative purposes only and are not necessarily drawn to scale.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONOverview

[0038] The technology described herein relates to a flexure mount capable of enhancing the vibration isolation of sensitive equipment, including optics, aerospace, and space applications. The mount’s dampening capability arises from the incorporation of two or more materials in its design, where one material imparts rigidity, while the other material imparts flex dampening properties. The design has a z-flexure, as well as x- and y-flexures, making it quasi-kinematic in all axes.

[0039] The design adopts the concept of constrained layer damping in a flexure mount. A viscoelastic material is sandwiched between the mount and a rigid constraining layer. Vibrational energy, instead of adversely impacting the equipment, causes shearing in the viscoelastic layer. Over time, this vibrational energy transforms into heat in the viscoelastic layer, ensuring the vibrations do not disturb the equipment’s operation. The geometry of the design can be applied to a wide range of applications. The use of multiple materials adds flexure and rigidity. The three-dimensional flexure provides flexure in all directions without warping the object or instrument being supported. The design also integrates the principle of constrained layer damping for vibration attenuation in the three-dimensional flexure. The damping transforms vibrational energy into heat thereby minimizing disturbances to equipment attached to the mount.

[0040] Advantages of the design of this mount include its monolithic (i.e., one-piece) construction, which holds a component in place in equilibrium without excessive constraint. The design is applicable for optical or other component mounts, vibration isolation for aerospace or other components, protection of sensitive equipment during space launches orother vibration or force-intensive operations, isolation of detectors and other precision instruments, or other suitable applications.

[0041] The damped flexure mount system described herein is designed to provide precision positioning while attenuating vibrations that could disturb sensitive equipment. The mount addresses the challenge of balancing rigid support requirements with effective vibration damping, particularly for optical components, aerospace instruments, and precision equipment subjected to harsh vibrational environments.

[0042] Advantages of the various designs describes herein include one or more of the following: (1) monolithic construction capability for reduced complexity; (2) three- dimensional compliance without over-constraining mounted components; (3) integrated vibration damping without sacrificing positioning precision; (4) fine adjustment capability for optical alignment; and (5) scalable design adaptable to various component sizes and environmental requirements.Examples

[0043] Now having described the embodiments of this disclosure in general, the following Examples describe some additional embodiments, features, and attributes of this disclosure. While embodiments of this disclosure are described in connection with the following examples and the corresponding text and figures, there is no intent to limit embodiments of this disclosure to this description. On the contrary, the intent is to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents included within the spirit and scope of embodiments of this disclosure. The following examples are put forth to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how to perform the methods and use the technology disclosed and claimed herein. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers (for example, amounts, temperature, etc.), but some errors and deviations should be accounted for.

[0044] The examples will now be discussed in more detail with reference to Figures 1-5. Figures 1 A and IB are a top perspective view and a bottom perspective view, respectively, of a flexure mount assembly 100 comprising an xy-flexure layer 102 and a z-flexure layer 104. Figure 2A is a top perspective view of the xy-flexure layer 102. Figures 2B and 2C are plan views of the xy-flexure layer 102 depicting the y-flexures 102b (Figure 2B) and the x-flexures 102a (Figure 2C). Figures 3 A and 3B are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of the z-flexure layer 104 depicting the z-flexures 104a. Figure 4 is a perspective view of an assembly 400 depicting a component 402 mounted to the flexure mount assembly 100, including an enlarged view of the tip, tilt, and piston adjustment of the z-flexure layer 104.Figure 5 is a plan view of a damped flexure mount 500 depicting a constrained layer dampening material 502 in the xy -flexure layer 102.

[0045] The flexure mount assembly 100 comprises an xy -flexure layer 102 and a z-flexure layer 104. In some examples, the xy-flexure layer and the z-flexure layer can be plates formed of any suitably rigid material to support a component attached thereto. For example, suitable materials include, but are not limited to, metals, plastics, or composites. The thermal expansion coefficient of the flexure layer may match that of the object or instrument being supported to mitigate temperature-induced distortions.

[0046] The xy-flexure layer 102 and the z-flexure layer 104 can be coupled together via fasteners 106 inserted into apertures 102c of the xy-flexure layer 102 and apertures 104c of the z-flexure layer 104. The fasteners 106 can be any suitable fastener, such as screws, machine screws, bolts, a bolt / nut combination or any other suitable fastener. In some examples, one or both of the apertures 102c, 104c may include threads for receiving the fasteners 106.

[0047] The xy-flexure layer 102 comprises x-flexures 102a and y-flexures 102b in the xy- flexure layer 102. The flexures 102a, 102b create an island 102e in the xy-flexure layer 102 that is translatable in the x-y directions, as described herein.

[0048] The z-flexure layer 104 comprises z-flexures 104a in the z-flexure layer 104. Because the island 102e is coupled to the z-flexure layer 104 via the fasteners 106 in the apertures 102c, 104c, the island 102e is also translatable in the z direction, as described herein.

[0049] Although depicted in the figures as comprising two flexures 102a, 102b, 104a in the corresponding flexure layers 102, 104, the mount can comprise any suitable number of flexures 102a, 102b, 104a, which may include a single flexure, two flexures, or more than two flexures.

[0050] The flexure dimensions are selected based on the desired stiffness, stress limits, and deflection range. For typical optical mounting applications, the following exemplary specifications can be utilized: flexure thickness of 0.005-0.050 inches, depending on material and load requirements; flexure length of 0.1-2.0 inches, with length-to-thickness ratios between 10: 1 and 100: 1; gap width of 0.010-0.100 inches, providing clearance for expected deflections plus safety margin; and island dimensions sized to accommodate the mounted component with appropriate safety factors. The z-flexures 104a typically have similar thickness to the xy- flexures but may be shorter in length to provide higher stiffness in the vertical direction for supporting component weight. In general, increasing flexure thickness, length, and / or width provides an increased dampening effect with less stiffness, and decreasing flexure thickness, length, and / or width provides a decreased dampening effect with more stiffness.

[0051] The surface of the island 102e on the side of the xy-flexure layer 102 facing the z- flexure layer 104 can be raised slightly with regard to surrounding portions of the xy-flexure layer 102. This configuration can allow connection of the island to the z-flexure layer 104 without binding any of the flexures 102a, 102b, 104a. Additionally, the xy-flexure layer 102 is coupled to the lower portion of the z-flexure layer 104 to prevent binding of the z-flexures 104a in the z-flexure layer 104. The fasteners 106 in the apertures 104c do not bridge (i.e., cross) the z-flexures 104a in the z-flexure layer 104.

[0052] Any component (for example, component 402 in Figure 4) coupled to the flexure mount assembly 100 to create an assembly 400 can be attached to the z-flexure layer 104 via fasteners through the apertures 104b. These fasteners can be countersunk through the lower portion of the z-flexure layer 104 to prevent binding of the z-flexures 104a in the z-flexure layer 104. The component is mounted securely to the flexural layers.

[0053] The xy-flexure layer 102 comprises apertures 102d to connect the flexure mount assembly 100 to a structure. For examples, fasteners, such as screws, bolts, or other fasteners, are inserted through the apertures 102d and coupled to the structure to affix the flexure mount assembly 100 to the structure. Alternatively, the fasteners can be inserted through the apertures in the structure and coupled to apertures 102d of the xy-flexure layer 102 to affix the flexure mount assembly 100 to the structure.

[0054] The flexures 102a, 102b, 104a each comprise two channels in the respective components that allow flexure in the x, y, and z directions, respectively, along a three- dimensional coordinate system. In this regard, the flexures 102a, 102b, 104a are compliant in specific degrees of freedom in the x, y, z directions and compensate for conditions encountered by the flexure mount assembly 100 to maintain a position of a component (for example, component 402 in Figure 4) coupled to the flexure mount assembly 100.

[0055] The xy-flexure layer 102 and the z-flexure layer 104 also comprise through openings A that allow passage of cables, wires, connectors, or other items to pass therethrough to the component (for example, component 402 in Figure 4) coupled to the flexure mount assembly 100.

[0056] The z-flexure layer 104 also comprises three bosses 104d that provide mechanical adjustment of the z-flexure layer 104 (and therefore adjustment of any component attached to the z-flexure layer 104) in “tip,” “tilt,” and “piston” directions. This adjustment provides fine, three-dimensional adjustment of the component 402 attached to the z-flexure layer 104 of the flexure mount assembly 100.

[0057] With reference to the enlarged portion B of Figure 4, each boss 104d comprises a threaded aperture 104e therein and extending from an upper surface of the boss 104d interior to one of the z-flexures 104a. A set screw 104f, or other suitable adjustment mechanism, is threaded into the threaded aperture 104e to contact an opposing portion of the z-flexure 104a. Tightening the set screw 104f in the threaded aperture 104e increases a pressure of the set screw 104f on the z-flexure 104a, thereby biasing an upper portion of the z-flexure layer 104 near the boss 104d in a direction away from the z-flexure 104a. Loosening the set screw 104f in the threaded aperture 104e decreases a pressure of the set screw 104f on the z-flexure 104a, thereby reducing the bias of the upper portion of the z-flexure layer 104 near the boss 104d in a direction away from the z-flexure 104a (in other words, moving the upper portion of the z- flexure layer 104 near the boss 104d toward the z-flexure 104a. In this manner, the three bosses 104d can be manipulated to provide tip, tilt, and piston directional control of the z-flexure layer 104, which thereby controls tip, tilt, and piston positioning of any component attached to the z-flexure layer 104.

[0058] The flexure mount assemblies 100 described herein can provide kinematic support for components 402 connected thereto.

[0059] A damped flexure mount comprises a constrained layer dampener in one or more of the flexures 102a, 102b, 104a of the flexure mount assembly 100. For example, as shown in the enlarged portion C in Figure 5, a dampening material 502 is disposed in the y-flexures 102b. This configuration creates a flexure area between two constraining layers.

[0060] Although depicted in Figure 5 as including the dampening material 502 in the y- flexures 102b, the dampening material can be included in one, two, or all of the flexures 102a, 102b, 104a to provide the desired dampening effect. Including the dampening material 502 in more of the flexures 102a, 102b, 104a increases the available dampening in the flexure mount assembly 100 and provides dampening in multiple directions.

[0061] The dampening material 502 can be disposed in any portion of a flexure 102a, 102b, 104a. As depicted in Figure 5, the dampening material 502 is disposed in the y-flexures 102b in an area where the flexures overlap close to each other as this is the region of highest strain and therefore highest strain energy that can be removed from vibration in the system. However, the dampening material 502 can be provided in any desired portion, including the entire portion or less than the entire portion, of the flexures 102a, 102b, 104a to provide a desired dampening effect.

[0062] The dampening material can attenuate vibrations encountered by the flexure mount assembly 100. Thus, the flexure mount assembly 100 is a dual purpose mount that maintains a quasi-kinematic mount and provides vibration damping.

[0063] The dampening material 502 can be applied in the channels of the flexures 102a, 102b, 104a in any suitable manner. For example, the dampening material 502 can be injected into the flexures 102a, 102b, 104a and cured. Alternatively, the dampening material can be cast or manually inserted into the channels.

[0064] In some examples, the dampening material 502 can capture strain-induced energy and remove that energy through heat. For example, the dampening material 502 can remove energy through hysteresis of a polymer. The thickness and type of polymer can be selected based on desired vibration attenuation characteristics, for example, to absorb energy without delaminating from the flexures.

[0065] The dampening material 502 can comprise viscoelastic polymers having specific mechanical properties selected based on the desired vibration attenuation characteristics. For example, suitable materials include: acrylic polymers with glass transition temperatures between -20°C to +60°C for aerospace applications; silicone-based polymers with Shore A hardness values between 10-80 for wide temperature range operation; urethane polymers with loss factors (tan 5) between 0.1 -2.0 at operating frequencies; and commercial damping tapes such as 3M® SJ2042X Constrained Layer Damper or Lord Corporation DYNAFLEX® products.

[0066] The thickness of the dampening material is typically selected to be 10%-50% of the flexure gap width to optimize energy dissipation while maintaining structural integrity. The material can exhibit stable viscoelastic properties across the expected operating temperature range and maintain adhesion to the flexure surfaces without delamination under cyclic loading.

[0067] The dampening material 502 can comprise any suitable vibration attenuating material, such as a viscoelastic polymer, urethane, or other flexible material. Examples are acrylic polymers, constrained layer dampening adhesives, engineered damping materials, and vibration dampening tape. The dampening material is more flexible than the materials of the xy-flexure layer 102 and z-flexure layer 104.

[0068] Alternative to disposing the dampening material in the flexures 102a, 102b, or 104a, a constraining plate can be applied on the surface of the xy-flexure layer 102 or the z-flexure layer 104. For example, a constraining plate can be applied on the surface of the xy-flexure layer 102 between the xy-flexure layer 102 and the z-flexure layer 104. This configurationconstrains all flexures 102a, 102b, 104a. An example constraining plate is a polymer or adhesive tape, such as DYNAMAT® or 3M® CL1151.

[0069] Although described herein as comprising two layers, the xy -flexure layer 102 and the z-flexure layer 104, the flexure mount assembly 100 can be molded as a single component with the x, y, and z flexures 102a, 102b, 104a formed therein. The dampening material described herein can be used in the flexures 102a, 102b, 104a with any of these configurations.

[0070] The flexure mount assembly 100 can be manufactured using various methods depending on the application requirements and production volume. For precision optical applications, the flexure layers 102, 104 may be machined from aluminum alloy (such as 6061- T6) or stainless steel using wire electrical discharge machining (EDM) or high-precision CNC milling. For the damped design, the dampening material 502 can be applied through several methods, such as injection molding where pre-cured viscoelastic material is heated and injected into the flexure gaps under controlled pressure; dispensing where uncured liquid polymer is dispensed using precision dispensing equipment and cured in-place; pre-formed insertion where pre-shaped dampening elements are mechanically inserted and bonded using structural adhesives; or tape application where pre-formed damping tapes are applied to flexure surfaces before assembly.

[0071] The z-flexure layer 104 may be omitted, if desired, to create a flexure mount assembly 100 comprising only the xy -flexure layer 102. In this case, the component 402 may be coupled to the xy -flexure layer 102 via the fasteners 106 in the apertures 102c to create an assembly 400. The dampening material described herein can be used in the flexures 102a, 102b with any of these configurations to create a damped flexure mount 500.

[0072] The flexure mount assembly 100 can provide one or more of the following typical performance characteristics: natural frequency of 50-500 Hz depending on component mass and flexure stiffness; Vibration attenuation of 10-40 dB reduction in transmitted vibration at frequencies above resonance; Positioning accuracy of sub-micron positioning capability with proper adjustment mechanisms; load capacity of 1-100 pounds depending on flexure design and safety factors; temperature stability of thermal expansion compensation when flexure and component materials are matched; and an operating environment suitable for vacuum and temperature extremes (-100°C to +200°C) and high acceleration environments typical of aerospace applications.

[0073] The flexure mount assemblies 100 described herein are suitable for supporting any desired component, such as the component 402 depicted in Figure 4. The flexure mountassemblies described herein are suitable for components requiring precision alignment and maintenance of that alignment in harsh environments, for example, during launch of a deploying rocket headed to space. Example components include optics, electronics, star trackers, inertial navigation systems / components, or any other desired component.Flexure Mounts

[0074] Described in the examples herein are mounts to isolate and dampen components attached thereto.

[0075] Clause 1. A flexure mount, comprising: a first flexure layer comprising two x- flexures therein and two y-flexures therein creating an island within the first flexure layer that is movable in an x direction based on the x-flexures and in a y direction based on the y-flexures; and a second flexure layer coupled to the island of the first flexure layer and comprising two z-flexures therein, the second flexure layer being movable in a z-direction based on the z- flexures, wherein a component coupled to the second flexure layer is translatable in the x, y, and z directions based on movement of the first and second flexure layers relative to the x- flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures, respectively.

[0076] Clause 2. The mount of clause 1, further comprising a dampening material disposed in a portion of at least one of the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures.

[0077] Clause 3. The mount of clause 2, wherein the dampening material is disposed in the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures at locations where the respective flexures are closest together.

[0078] Clause 4. The mount of clause 2, wherein the dampening material comprises a vibration attenuating material.

[0079] Clause 5. The mount of clause 2, wherein the dampening material comprises a viscoelastic polymer.

[0080] Clause 6. The mount of clause 5, wherein the viscoelastic polymer comprises at least one of an acrylic polymer, a urethane polymer, and a silicone-based polymer.

[0081] Clause 7. The mount of clause 1, further comprising a constraining layer disposed between the first flexure layer and the second flexure layer.

[0082] Clause 8. The mount of clause 1, wherein a surface of the island of the first flexure layer is raised with respect to surrounding surfaces of the first flexure layer.

[0083] Clause 9. The mount of clause 1, wherein the first and second flexure layers are coupled together without limiting movement of the island in the x, y, or z directions.

[0084] Clause 10. The mount of clause 1, wherein the first flexure layer comprises a plurality of apertures therein and the second flexure layer comprises a plurality of apertures therein that correspond to the apertures in the first flexure layer, the mount further comprising a plurality of fasteners, each fastener inserted into a respective one of the apertures in the first flexure layer and into a corresponding one of the apertures in the second flexure layer and securing the first flexure layer to a portion of the second flexure layer that is between the first flexure layer and the z-flexures of the second flexure layer.

[0085] Clause 11. The mount of clause 1, wherein the second flexure layer comprises at least one adjustable boss that adjusts a surface of the second flexure layer by changing a width of at least one of the z-flexures.

[0086] Clause 12. The mount of clause 1, the second flexure layer comprising: at least one adjustable boss comprising a threaded aperture extending from an upper surface of the boss toward at least one of the z-flexures; and an adjustment screw threadably engaged in the aperture and configured to contact the z-flexure to adjust a position of an upper portion of the second flexure layer relative to the at least one of the z-flexures.

[0087] Clause 13. The mount of clause 1, wherein the second flexure layer comprises three adjustable bosses that adjust tip, tilt, and piston of a surface of the second flexure layer.

[0088] Clause 14. The mount of clause 1, further comprising the component coupled to the second flexure layer.

[0089] Clause 15. The mount of clause 14, wherein the component is an optic.

[0090] Clause 16. A flexure mount, comprising: at least one flexure plate comprising two x-flexures therein, two y-flexures therein, and two z-flexures therein creating a portion within the plate that is movable in an x direction based on the x-flexures, a y direction based on the y- flexures, and a z-direction based on the z-flexures.

[0091] Clause 17. The mount of clause 16, wherein the at least one flexure plate comprises a first flexure plate and a second flexure plate, the first flexure plate comprising the two x- flexures and the two y-flexures therein, and the second flexure plate comprising the two z- flexures therein.

[0092] Clause 18. The mount of clause 17, wherein the second flexure plate comprises at least one adjustable boss that adjusts a surface of the second flexure plate by changing a width of at least one of the z-flexures.

[0093] Clause 19. The mount of clause 16, further comprising a dampening material disposed in a portion of at least one of the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures.

[0094] Clause 20. A flexure mount, comprising: a flexure layer comprising at least one x- flexure therein and at least one y-flexure therein creating an island within the first flexure layer that is movable in an x direction based on the x-flexures and in a y direction based on the y- flexures; and a dampening material disposed in at least a portion of at least one of the x-flexures and the y-flexures.

[0095] Clause 21. A method of damping vibrations in a flexure mount, comprising: providing a flexure mount having at least one flexure defining a flexible region with opposing surfaces; applying a viscoelastic dampening material to the flexible region; and converting vibrational energy to thermal energy through shear deformation of the dampening material during flexural movement.General Disclosures

[0096] While embodiments of this disclosure are described in connection with examples and the corresponding text and figures, there is no intent to limit embodiments of this disclosure to this description. On the contrary, the intent is to cover all alternatives, modifications, and equivalents included within the spirit and scope of embodiments of this disclosure. The examples described herein are put forth so as to provide those of ordinary skill in the art with a complete disclosure and description of how to make and use the invention claimed herein. Efforts have been made to ensure accuracy with respect to numbers (e.g., amounts, temperature, etc.), but some errors and deviations should be accounted for.

[0097] It is to be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the particular embodiments described, and as such may, of course, vary. It is also to be understood that the terminology used herein is for the purpose of describing particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting.

[0098] Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this disclosure belongs. Although any methods and materials similar or equivalent to those described herein can also be used in the practice or testing of this disclosure, certain methods and materials are now described.

[0099] All publications and patents cited in this specification are cited to disclose and describe the methods and / or materials in connection with which the publications are cited. The complete disclosure of all such publications and patents are herein incorporated by references as if each individual publication or patent was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated by reference. Such incorporation by reference is expressly limited to the methodsand / or materials described in the cited publications and patents and does not extend to any lexicographical definitions from the cited publications and patents. Any lexicographical definition in the publications and patents cited that is not also expressly repeated in this application should not be treated as such and should not be read as defining any terms appearing in the accompanying claims. The citation of any publication is for its disclosure prior to the filing date and should not be construed as an admission that this disclosure is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior disclosure. Further, the dates of publication provided could be different from the actual publication dates that may need to be independently confirmed.

[0100] As will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading this disclosure, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has discrete components and features which may be readily separated from or combined with the features of any of the other described embodiments without departing from the scope or spirit of this disclosure. Any recited method can be carried out in the order of events recited or in any other order that is logically possible.

[0101] Where a range is expressed, a further aspect includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Where a range of values is provided, it is understood that each intervening value, to the tenth of the unit of the lower limit unless the context clearly dictates otherwise, between the upper and lower limit of that range and any other stated or intervening value in that stated range, is encompassed within the disclosure. The upper and lower limits of these smaller ranges may independently be included in the smaller ranges and are also encompassed within the disclosure, subject to any specifically excluded limit in the stated range. Where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure. For example, where the stated range includes one or both of the limits, ranges excluding either or both of those included limits are also included in the disclosure, e.g., the phrase “x to y” includes the range from ‘x’ to ‘y’ as well as the range greater than ‘x’ and less than ‘y’. The range can also be expressed as an upper limit, e.g., ‘about x, y, z, or less’ and should be interpreted to include the specific ranges of ‘about x’, ‘about y’, and ‘about z’ as well as the ranges of Tess than x’, less than y’, and Tess than z’ . Likewise, the phrase ‘about x, y, z, or greater’ should be interpreted to include the specific ranges of ‘about x’, ‘about y’, and ‘about z’ as well as the ranges of ‘greater than x’, greater than y’, and ‘greater than z’. In addition, the phrase “about ‘x’ to ‘y’”, where ‘x’ and ‘y’ are numerical values, includes “about ‘x’ to about ‘y’”.

[0102] It should be noted that ratios, amounts, and other numerical data can be expressed herein in a range format. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint. It is also understood that a number of values are disclosed herein, and that each value is also herein disclosed as “about” that particular value in addition to the value itself. For example, if the value “10” is disclosed, then “about 10” is also disclosed. Ranges can be expressed herein as from “about” one particular value, and / or to “about” another particular value. Similarly, when values are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent “about,” it will be understood that the particular value forms a further aspect. For example, if the value “about 10” is disclosed, then “10” is also disclosed.

[0103] It is to be understood that such a range format is used for convenience and brevity, and thus, should be interpreted in a flexible manner to include not only the numerical values explicitly recited as the limits of the range, but also to include all the individual numerical values or sub-ranges encompassed within that range, as if each numerical value and sub-range is explicitly recited. To illustrate, a numerical range of “about 30 to 135” should be interpreted to include not only the explicitly recited values of about 30 to about 135, but also include individual values (e.g., about 30, about 31, about 32, etc.) and the sub-ranges (e.g., about 30 to about 45, about 60 to about 70, etc. and other possible sub-ranges) within the indicated range.

[0104] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0105] As used herein, “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and the like, when used in connection with a measurable variable such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, are meant to encompass variations of and from the specified value including those within experimental error (which can be determined by, e.g., a given data set, art accepted standard, and / or with, e.g., a given confidence interval (e.g., 90%, 95%, or more confidence interval from the mean), such as variations of + / -10% or less, + / -5% or less, + / -1% or less, and + / -0.1% or less of and from the specified value, insofar such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed invention. As used herein, the terms “about,” “approximate,” “at or about,” and “substantially” can mean that the amount or value in question can be the exact value or a value that provides equivalent results or effects as recited in the claims or taught herein. That is, it is understood that amounts, sizes, formulations, parameters, and other quantities and characteristics are not and need not be exact, but may be approximate and / or larger or smaller, as desired, reflecting tolerances, conversion factors, rounding off, measurement error, and the like, and other factors known to those of ordinary skill in the artsuch that equivalent results or effects are obtained. In some circumstances, the value that provides equivalent results or effects cannot be reasonably determined. In general, an amount, size, formulation, parameter or other quantity or characteristic is “about,” “approximate,” or “at or about” whether or not expressly stated to be such. It is understood that where “about,” “approximate,” or “at or about” is used before a quantitative value, the parameter also includes the specific quantitative value itself, unless specifically stated otherwise.

[0106] The term “optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequent described event, circumstance, or substituent may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event or circumstance occurs and instances where it does not.

[0107] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within the respective ranges, as well as the recited endpoints.

[0108] Various embodiments are described herein. It should be noted that the specific embodiments are not intended as an exhaustive description or as a limitation to the broader aspects discussed herein. One aspect described in conjunction with a particular embodiment is not necessarily limited to that embodiment and can be practiced with any other embodiment(s). Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment,” “an embodiment,” “an example embodiment,” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the invention described herein. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment,” “in an embodiment,” or “an example embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person having ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Additionally, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention. For example, in the appended claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[0109] The complete disclosure of all publications, published patent documents, and patent applications cited herein is hereby fully incorporated by reference to the same extent as though each individual publication, published patent document, or patent application was specifically and individually indicated as being incorporated by reference.

[0110] The example systems, methods, and acts described in the embodiments presented previously are illustrative, and, in alternative embodiments, certain acts can be performed in adifferent order, in parallel with one another, omitted entirely, and / or combined between different example embodiments, and / or certain additional acts can be performed, without departing from the scope and spirit of various embodiments. Accordingly, such alternative embodiments are included in the scope of the following claims, which are to be accorded the broadest interpretation so as to encompass such alternate embodiments.[OHl] Various modifications and variations of the inventions described herein will be apparent to those having ordinary skill in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. Although the invention has been described in connection with specific embodiments, it will be understood that it is capable of further modifications and that the invention as claimed should not be unduly limited to such specific embodiments. Indeed, various modifications of the described modes for carrying out the invention that are obvious to those having ordinary skill in the art are intended to be within the scope of the invention. This application is intended to cover any variations, uses, or adaptations of the invention following, in general, the principles of the invention and including such departures from this disclosure that come within known customary practice within the art to which the invention pertains and may be applied to the essential features herein before described.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A flexure mount, comprising: a first flexure layer comprising two x-flexures therein and two y-flexures therein creating an island within the first flexure layer that is movable in an x direction based on the x-flexures and in a y direction based on the y-flexures; and a second flexure layer coupled to the island of the first flexure layer and comprising two z-flexures therein, the second flexure layer being movable in a z-direction based on the z- flexures, wherein a component coupled to the second flexure layer is translatable in the x, y, and z directions based on movement of the first and second flexure layers relative to the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures, respectively.

2. The mount of claim 1, further comprising a dampening material disposed in a portion of at least one of the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures.

3. The mount of claim 2, wherein the dampening material is disposed in the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures at locations where the respective flexures are closest together.

4. The mount of claim 2, wherein the dampening material comprises a vibration attenuating material.

5. The mount of claim 2, wherein the dampening material comprises a viscoelastic polymer.

6. The mount of claim 5, wherein the viscoelastic polymer comprises at least one of an acrylic polymer, a urethane polymer, and a silicone-based polymer.

7. The mount of claim 1, further comprising a constraining layer disposed between the first flexure layer and the second flexure layer.

8. The mount of claim 1, wherein a surface of the island of the first flexure layer is raised with respect to surrounding surfaces of the first flexure layer.

9. The mount of claim 1, wherein the first and second flexure layers are coupled together without limiting movement of the island in the x, y, or z directions.

10. The mount of claim 1, wherein the first flexure layer comprises a plurality of apertures therein and the second flexure layer comprises a plurality of apertures therein that correspond to the apertures in the first flexure layer, the mount further comprising a plurality of fasteners, each fastener inserted into a respective one of the apertures in the first flexure layer and into a corresponding one of the apertures in the second flexure layer and securing the first flexure layer to a portion of the second flexure layer that is between the first flexure layer and the z-flexures of the second flexure layer.

11. The mount of claim 1, wherein the second flexure layer comprises at least one adjustable boss that adjusts a surface of the second flexure layer by changing a width of at least one of the z-flexures.

12. The mount of claim 1, the second flexure layer comprising: at least one adjustable boss comprising a threaded aperture extending from an upper surface of the boss toward at least one of the z-flexures; and an adjustment screw threadably engaged in the aperture and configured to contact the z-flexure to adjust a position of an upper portion of the second flexure layer relative to the at least one of the z-flexures.

13. The mount of claim 1, wherein the second flexure layer comprises three adjustable bosses that adjust tip, tilt, and piston of a surface of the second flexure layer.

14. The mount of claim 1, further comprising the component coupled to the second flexure layer.

15. The mount of claim 14, wherein the component is an optic.

16. A flexure mount, comprising: at least one flexure plate comprising two x-flexures therein, two y-flexures therein, and two z-flexures therein creating a portion within the plate that is movable in an x direction based on the x-flexures, a y direction based on the y-flexures, and a z-direction based on the z- flexures.

17. The mount of claim 16, wherein the at least one flexure plate comprises a first flexure plate and a second flexure plate, the first flexure plate comprising the two x-flexures and the two y-flexures therein, and the second flexure plate comprising the two z-flexures therein.

18. The mount of claim 17, wherein the second flexure plate comprises at least one adjustable boss that adjusts a surface of the second flexure plate by changing a width of at least one of the z-flexures.

19. The mount of claim 16, further comprising a dampening material disposed in a portion of at least one of the x-flexures, the y-flexures, and the z-flexures.

20. A flexure mount, comprising: a flexure layer comprising at least one x-flexure therein and at least one y-flexure therein creating an island within the first flexure layer that is movable in an x direction based on the x-flexures and in a y direction based on the y-flexures; and a dampening material disposed in at least a portion of at least one of the x-flexures and the y-flexures.

21. A method of damping vibrations in a flexure mount, comprising: providing a flexure mount having at least one flexure defining a flexible region with opposing surfaces; applying a viscoelastic dampening material to the flexible region; and converting vibrational energy to thermal energy through shear deformation of the dampening material during flexural movement.

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