A FLEXURE BALANCE WITH ADJUSTABLE RESTORING TORQUE FOR NANONEWTON FORCE MEASUREMENT |
|---|
| Jon R. Pratt, David B. Newell, John A. Kramar |
- Abstract:
- The NIST electrostatic force balance compares mechanical probe forces to an SI realization of force derived from measurements of the capacitance gradient and voltage in an electronic null balance. As we approach the nanonewton regime, the finite stiffness of the guiding flexure in the balance becomes a limiting factor. Here, we consider an equal arm balance mechanism constructed using flexure pivots as an alternative to the compound rectilinear spring of the present design. We review how the sensitivity of such mechanisms can be adjusted either by manipulating the center of gravity, or by applying a negative restoring torque using a spring. We examine tradeoffs associated with tuning the stiffness of these mechanisms with regards to tilt sensitivity and various nonideal flexure behaviors. Results obtained with a prototype mechanism are presented.
- Download:
- IMEKO-TC3-2002-030.pdf
- DOI:
- -
- Event details
- IMEKO TC:
- TC3
- Event name:
- Joint International Conference on Force, Mass, Torque, Hardness and Civil Engineering Metrology in the age of globalization
- Title:
18th Conference on Force, Mass and Torque (together with 8th HARDMEKO TC5 Conference on Hardness Measurement and 1st TC20 Conference on Civil Engineering Metrology)
- Place:
- Celle, GERMANY
- Time:
- 24 September 2002 - 26 September 2002