Actuator assembly with rotational coupler in-line with rotational valve shaft
US7540467B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 28, 2007 |
| Grant date | Jun 2, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 16, 2027 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16K31/5282
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An actuator assembly including an actuator housing assembly having a linear drive mechanism disposed at least partially therein. A linear variable differential transducer (LVDT) is coupled to the linear drive mechanism and configured to eliminate rotation of the linear drive mechanism and provide linear positioning of the linear drive mechanism. A valve shaft is coupled to the linear drive mechanism and in substantially linear alignment with the linear drive mechanism. A rotational coupler, in the form of a helical groove and reciprocating guide member, is formed to couple the linear drive mechanism to the valve shaft. The valve shaft is configured to allow for the linear displacement therein of the linear drive mechanism and thereby output a rotation moment via the rotational coupler to the valve shaft.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.