Hydrostatic support structure and liquid-cushion load-carrying apparatus incorporating the same

摘要

A hydrostatic support structure wherein, to move a surface with a load disposed thereupon with respect to a bearing surface, a liquid cushion is provided due to a feeding of a liquid into an inner space defined by the bearing surface and a housing having a sealing member. Within the housing there is disposed a piston provided with its own sealing member which seals the gap between the housing and the piston, whereas the first sealing member defining the liquid cushion being formed along the perimeter of the inner space is rigidly secured to the housing of the support structure.