Optics: measuring and testing – Plural test
Reexamination Certificate
1999-09-08
2001-05-22
Kim, Robert H. (Department: 2877)
Optics: measuring and testing
Plural test
C074S469000
Reexamination Certificate
active
06236451
ABSTRACT:
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention is generally directed to a linear guidance device that can be used in machine tools. The device is particularly adapted for use with hexapod systems. However, the device can also be used with other types of systems, if desired.
European Patent No. 0 489 857 shows an example of a typical hexapod system. Such hexapod systems typically include linear guidance devices having a saddle (or slide) which is mounted for translational movement along a rail. However, such devices typically have the drawback of being highly unbalanced (asymmetric) and relatively bulky.
Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to provide a linear guidance device that can be used in a machine tool such as a hexapod and which is better balanced.
It is also an object of the present invention to provide a linear guidance device that can be used in a machine tool such as a hexapod and which is less bulky.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
These and other objects which will become apparent are achieved in accordance with the present invention by providing a linear guidance device that can be used in a machine tool such as a hexapod and which comprises, in combination, a rail having an open region which extends, either completely or partially, in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the rail, and a ball screw having a nut which is fixed to the rail and which either completely or partially penetrates the open region of the rail. The nut may be fixed directly to the rail, or using other components.
In a first alternative embodiment, one end of the ball screw is longitudinally immobilized and rotationally driven. The saddle supported by the rail is also immobilized so that the saddle is prevented from rotating. In operation, rotation of the ball screw causes the nut, and as a result, the rail secured to the nut, to be displaced longitudinally. The advantage of such an arrangement is that a better working symmetry is obtained, with linear guidance, while at the same time achieving results which are at least identical to those of known devices, and with a less bulky device.
In an alternative embodiment, the reading head of a measurement rule is fixed to the nut of the ball screw.
In another alternative embodiment, the ball screw is driven in translation, and the nut is driven only in rotation.
The present invention will be better understood with reference to the detailed description which is provided below, together with the following drawings.
REFERENCES:
patent: 5392663 (1995-02-01), Charles
patent: 5401128 (1995-03-01), Lindem et al.
patent: 5604593 (1997-02-01), McMurtry
patent: 5771747 (1998-06-01), Sheldon
patent: 5813287 (1998-09-01), McMurtry et al.
patent: 5903125 (1999-05-01), Prentice et al.
patent: 5916328 (1999-06-01), Pritschow et al.
patent: WO 9103145 (1991-03-01), None
Cohen Gary M.
Constructions Mécaniques des Marioni
Kim Robert H.
Stafira Michael P.
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