Flexing Elements

Structural elements that are required to have high deformability should be designed so that they are capable of withstanding the flexural or torsional loads associated with the application (see also Section 6.1). Two examples of such designs common in parts made from polymeric materials are snap-fit or interlocking joint elements and elastic elements. Another common feature in parts designed for high deformability is their relatively thin wall thickness. For example, integral hinges are structural elements having extremely low wall thicknesses.