#1030: LockLinks

Today’s invention is a new form of motorcycle chain. Each link has the ability to lock to its neighbour(s) rigidly, on receipt of a computer-controlled signal (using something like a small solenoid).

As the chain is driven in the usual way, at a) it becomes flexible as normal and at b) it becomes a rigid beam. The situation reverses at c).

chain

Clever timing of the signals allows this smart chain to act as lever arm and springs, thus reducing the weight of the machine by a significant factor.

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