Linear actuator with controllable output force
US5176037A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 28, 1991 |
| Grant date | Jan 5, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 28, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T74/1896
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An actuator suitable for use with a valve has a design allowing for easy control or adjustment of the force applied to the valve. The actuator motor has a cam which operates a follower surface of a spring-loaded arm mounted for rotation on a carriage. The carriage is mounted for linear motion and connected to the control element of the valve. The actuation force can be controlled or adjusted by changing the relative positions of the arm's center of rotation, the point on the arm at which the spring applies force, and the position of the cam. In a preferred embodiment, the position of the arm's center of rotation is changed by moving a pin from one set of holes in the carriage and the arm to a second set of holes in the carriage and the arm.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.