Novel torsion balance for the measurement of the Newtonian gravitational constant

We report on the design and preliminary performance of a novel torsion balance for the measurement of the Newtonian gravitational constant. The design takes advantage of the properties of a wide, heavily loaded torsion strip to enhance the ratio of gravitational signal-to-noise torques beyond that achievable by the traditional Cavendish torsion balance. The results of preliminary experiments suggest that an accuracy of 1 part in 10 4 should be possible.