US Patent 12092151 Multi-pivot timing chain with link flexures

A multi-pivot timing chain comprises first timing links in a first timing chain layer coupled together via meshing gear teeth, and second timing links in a second timing chain layer coupled together via meshing gear teeth. Pins rotatably couple the first timing links to the second timing links. Each of the timing links comprises opposing first and second gear portions comprising gear teeth, and first and second flexures connecting the two gear portions. The flexures are in tension and configured to cause a pair of meshing gear teeth in an adjacent timing chain layer to be in compression, thereby creating resistance to rotation of the timing links that comprise the meshing gear teeth.