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Flex Pivot Bearing 3D Printer File Image 1
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Flex Pivot Bearing

THEbigSCHNOZ avatarTHEbigSCHNOZ

March 1, 2026

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Description

This is a pivot bearing (flexure bearing). It allows for angular rotation in a single axis while remaining stiff in the remaining 5 degrees of freedom. The benefit of this mechanism, compared to traditional ball bearings, is high precision/repeatability, as well as no backlash. The limitations are a low range of motion and a spring constant. 

Allows for +/-30 degrees of motion. 

Integration. To integrate, do one of the following:

  • .50"D, .75"D, and 1.00"D sizes
  • Using a slight press-fit (using a mallet or arbor press)
  • Epoxy bond
    • For extra hold, have the mating geometry have a similar keyway/slot to allow the epoxy to mechanically hold like a key

Printing:

  • .4mm nozzle maximum (or else flexures may not print)
  • No support 
  • No brim
  • Print in the vertical orientation

I've tested this successfully with PLA and PETG.  Different filaments have different stiffnesses (reference their material's elastic modulus as a proportional reference)

License:

BY-NC

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