Patent · US Expired

Variable reactance alignment detector and control

US4371116A · kind A · utility

8Cited by
23References
9Claims
0Family size

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateJan 5, 1981
Grant dateFeb 1, 1983
Priority date
Expiry dateJan 5, 2001

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC A)Human Necessities
  • CPC primaryA01G25/092
  • WIPO fieldOther special machines
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

An alignment system with a variable reactance element is provided for detection of the angular alignment of two variably positionable members. The variable reactance elements form two oppositely varying impedances. A preferred embodiment of the variable reactance element consists of a pair of inductive coils mounted on a core element which forms a flux path for each coil. The core has an integral, deflectable central member which forms a common flux path for both coils. Air gaps within the flux path of each coil are located on either side of a central member of the core. Another variable reactance consists of a first inductive coil having a fixed core element forming a partial flux path for the inductive coil and a movable core element positionable relative to the fixed core element with air gaps between the core elements. A second inductive coil having a similar associated core element from the first coil element. A modification of the previous embodiment is disclosed wherein the fixed core elements are in part formed of spaced, elongated bars. Detection circuitry utilizing comparators in one version and differential current relays in another are disclosed.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.