Multi-DOF Displacement Transducer with Cross Flexure

The patent combines multiple measurement functions (linear displacement measurement about first axis, linear displacement measurement about second axis, rotational displacement measurement about first axis, and rotational displacement measurement about second axis) into a single integrated transducer body with interconnected pivoting assemblies. This merging approach enables the device to measure all four degrees of freedom simultaneously while maintaining a unified structural framework, thereby improving versatility without proportionally increasing complexity.

The transducer body is designed as a universal measurement device that can simultaneously perform multiple measurement functions through its pivoting assemblies. Each pivoting assembly can measure both linear and rotational displacements about orthogonal axes, making the device multi-functional and adaptable to various measurement requirements in different testing scenarios.

The patent employs cross flexure assemblies composed of flexible plates instead of rigid mechanical joints. These flexible plates act as compliant elements that enable precise pivoting motion about orthogonal axes through controlled elastic deformation. The flexibility of these thin plate structures allows for high measurement precision while reducing the stringent manufacturing tolerances that would be required for rigid precision mechanical joints.

The cross flexure arrangements change the mechanical parameters of the pivoting assemblies by introducing controlled flexibility through the flexible plates. This parameter change allows the system to achieve high measurement precision through elastic compliance rather than rigid precision machining, thereby reducing manufacturing precision requirements while maintaining or improving measurement accuracy.