Modular motion stages utilizing interconnecting elements
US6174102A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 26, 1998 |
| Grant date | Jan 16, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 26, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T403/1624
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A modular approach to the design of motion modules, e.g., positioning elements, is provided. Thus, a single positioning element can be integrated into a number of multi-axis configurations through combination with other basic positioning elements all of which share a modular interlocking feature. In an embodiment of the invention a motion module is disclosed which includes a base and a mobile stage. The base includes an exterior surface and a first interconnector located on the exterior surface. The mobile stage includes an exterior surface and a second interconnector. The mobile stage is positionable with respect to the base. The second interconnector is located on the exterior surface of the mobile stage. The first and the second interconnector are mutually engagable in releasable frictional engagement with second and first interconnectors of other motion modules for stackable interconnection therebetween.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.