Abstract

A fluid-powered rotary actuated support for a platform, having a body with a vertical axial orientation during use. A drive member has a drive shaft extending coaxially within the body and a flange attached to an end portion of the shaft toward an upper body end. The shaft and flange are formed as an integral unit free of connection joints therebetween. The flange projects radially outward from the shaft beyond an inner body surface and is rotatable relative to the body through a horizontal plane. A first ball race is formed in the flange and a second ball race is formed in the body with balls disposed therebetween. Linear-to-rotary transmission means disposed within the body are operable for providing rotational movement between the drive member and body. The body utilizes a stationary seal to facilitate seal placement and reduce the overall length of the body. In one embodiment, the transmission means includes a plurality of rollers each having at least two roller disks adjustably axially movable relative to each other within a limited range for backlash elimination purposes. The rollers are rotatably disposed on spindles, each having a free end portion attached to an annular support plate and an opposite end portion rotatably disposed in a piston sleeve bore hole for rotational adjustment of the spindles to axially move the support plate and apply an axial force on the roller disks.

Other References

• Spiracon brochure-Planetary roller screws, a Unique Innovation in Mechanical Linear Acruators, A 4 page Brochure. (Undated
• Moscow Bauman Tech. Coll. Week 84/10, Issued 27 Jun. 84, a one page description
• Mechanisms, Linkages, and Mechanical Controls, by Chironis, a 4 page brochure, 12-196