The mechanism of the present invention maneuvers a vehicle by deflecting
the flow from a propulsor of the vehicle. The mechanism has an
elastomeric nozzle that encases the flow and is deflected via an
articulation device mountable inside the vehicle. The nozzle is shaped
and supported by spiral-wound composite to maintain a circular
cross-section through a range of motion. An end of the nozzle is attached
to the shroud of the propulsor and another end is supported by a ring
with support struts radiating from a hub. The hub is supported by a shaft
attached to a gimbal. The gimbal is constrained in movement by an outer
race and an anti-rotation stud in a radial slot in a ball of the gimbal.
A linkage as part of an articulation device controls rotation of the
gimbal to direct movement of the shaft and enclosed nozzle thereby
deflecting flow of the propulsor.