Methods and apparatus for closed loop force control in a linear actuator

US9731418B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Systems, Machines, Automation Components Corporation · US

Inventors

• Edward A. Neff · Cardiff-by-the-Sea, US
• Toan M. Vu · San Diego, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Oct 6, 2015
• Grant date: Aug 15, 2017
• Expiry date: Feb 10, 2036

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S901/09
• WIPO field: Control
• WIPO sector: Instruments

Abstract

A system and method for using a probe assembly to apply a desired force to a target surface. The method includes moving the probe assembly into an approach position, the approach position being a predetermined distance from the target surface. The probe assembly is then moved from the approach position to the target surface pursuant to a soft landing procedure. The soft landing procedure includes determining that the probe assembly has moved into soft contact with the target surface. The method further includes applying, subsequent to establishment of the soft contact between the probe assembly and the target surface, force to the probe assembly until an applied force on the target surface reaches the desired force. The applied force may then be monitored based upon an output of a load cell responsive to a force exerted by the probe assembly.