Constant force actuator
US7334642B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 29, 2006 |
| Grant date | Feb 26, 2008 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 7, 2026 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC E)Fixed Constructions
- CPC primaryE21B23/001
- WIPO fieldCivil engineering
- WIPO sectorOther fields
Abstract
A radially expandable tool is provided that includes a tool body and a radially moveable member coupled to the tool body and in force receiving relation to a constant force actuator. The radially moveable member is movable by the constant force actuator from an closed position to a plurality of radially expanded open positions, which includes a fully open position. The constant force actuator includes an opening arm having a force transmission member; and a movement control guide in force reacting engagement with the force transmission member. The tool also includes a linear force generator; which applies a linear force to the constant force actuator, which the actuator transfers to a radial force perpendicular to the linear force. When the linear force is constant, the radial force transferred by the actuator is constant for each radial position of the radially moveable member from the closed position to the fully opened position due to the interaction of the force transmission member and the movement control guide.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.