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Abstract

An improved version of vibration isolation systems using negative stiffness incorporates a payload and payload platform on just one 6-DOF isolator in a unique and innovatively compact configuration. The isolator includes a platform supported on an assembly of independently acting flexure mechanisms which are connected in serial fashion, tilt on top of horizontal on top of vertical, and in turn connected a base. Proper arrangement of the mechanisms and the payload/platform center of mass provides highly effective decoupled isolator performance. In addition, an innovative flexure preloading method which significantly improves vertical isolation performance is incorporated. This method can be used with prior (unsymmetric) designs or combined with a set of shear flexures in an innovative symmetric arrangement described below to provide more assurance of ideal decoupled response to mutually perpendicular base excitation input. A geared mechanism is also incorporated to facilitate manual adjustment of a main support spring whenever payload weight is changed.

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First Claim