Fast pivot mechanism
US6999647B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | May 25, 2004 |
| Grant date | Feb 14, 2006 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 25, 2024 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG02B6/3594
- WIPO fieldOptics
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A method and apparatuses are provided for switching an optical element into and out of an optical path. The apparatus comprises an arm assembly having an axis, first and second arms, first and second latch mechanisms, a stop element, and a solenoid. The first and second arms are coupled to the axis, and one of the arms is configured to selectively rotate relative to the other between first and second rotational positions. The latch mechanisms are mounted to the first arm at first and second mounting positions. The stop element is coupled to the second arm and positioned between and capable of contacting the latch mechanisms. The solenoid is coupled to the arm assembly and configured to provide kinetic energy to the one of the first and second arms configured to rotate to thereby cause the stop element to selectively contact the first latch mechanism and the second latch mechanism.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.