an actuator is formed by using at least one flexure that is continuously flexible between a rigid connection to a stator and a rigid connection to a translator . the one or more continuously flexible flexures provide a long range of translator motion when combined with an electrostatic levitation arrangement . in selected embodiments , the flexures that are continuously flexible are straight beam flexures , so as to provide a high degree of stiffness . in other embodiments , the flexures are pre - bent to provide a longer switching throw from a relaxed state . where the translator is required to be displaced in a generally straight - line direction , some off - axis displacement will occur , but is preferably accompanied by a stepping of a levitation voltage pattern . in another embodiment one and only one straight beam flexure is used and the levitator is caused to rotate about a rotational axis that is intersected by the one straight beam flexure .