Development of Force-Deflection Relationships for Compliant Mechanisms

An arcuate escalator system having a readily fabricated and reliable construction is provided that also had advantageous esthetic aspects. In a specific example, the escalator is of helical configuration, arranged around a central axis. Tapered step segments meeting all established safety standards for size, configuration and entry and exit paths are advanced along the helical path in the desired direction. In the return path, the step segments turn through small radii of curvature into and out of an intermediate substantially linear portion, for which purpose they may be tilted and partially nested relative to each other. The principal return path is the linear portion of the path, in this example, and passes through a center column around which the helical structure is arranged. The drive mechanism comprises a guided chain drive having both lateral and vertical freedom of movement, and coupled to the step elements by pivotally connected step links. Guide means for the step elements and the chain drive system control the inclination and curvature of the path. Radial forces generated during movement of the system are absorbed by a roller guide system along the chain drive.