Taut-band suspensions for 250-degree instruments

The taut-band suspension instrument contains a moving element suspended by two metal bands under tension which replace the conventional spiral springs, jewels, and pivot bearings. (The term "taut-band suspension instrument" is used in this paper as reference to an instrument element that is supported by two metal ribbons under tension, sustained by springs.) This new design is free from bearing friction, thus eliminating the major causes of trouble experienced with conventional pivot and jewel bearings such as pivot wear and flattening, or damaged and dirty jewels.