Checkerflex

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Checkerflexes are called that because of their resemblance to the squares

on a checkerboard.  They are built from square pyramids that are joined

together by equilateral triangle hinges.  The hinges also connect these

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pyramids to a backbone of hinged squares.

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       Fig. 319  Checkerflex

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click here to see construction details

           click image to enlarge

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Twisting any one of the pyramids causes all of the other pyramids to twist

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also.  Each pyramid acts as both a hinge and a lever forcing adjoining

pyramids to twist.

 

As the pyramids flex the entire

backbone structure flexes in one

direction.

click image to enlarge

 

 

Besides being cool gizmos themselves,

checkerflexes can also be used to

power multi-leg critters, or wings, or?

click image to enlarge

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