MAGNETICALLY-LATCHED ACTUATOR

摘要

A system, apparatus, and method for using a magnetic latch to maintain a desired force between a test-probe assembly and a surface of a component. The method includes moving the test-probe assembly into an approach position, the approach position being a predetermined distance from the surface of a component. The test-probe assembly is then moved from the approach position to the surface of a component pursuant to a soft landing procedure. The method further includes magnetically latching the test-probe assembly in contact with the surface of a component at a constant force. The moving coil of the actuator can be de-energized while the test-probe assembly performs measurements on the component. After the testing is completed, the moving coil is energized and the test-probe assembly is retracted away from the component. The applied force may be monitored based upon an output of a load cell responsive to a force exerted by the test-probe assembly.

主权项

1. A method for testing a component using a test-probe assembly coupled to a shaft of an actuator, the method comprising:
energizing the actuator during a first time period to move the test-probe assembly into an approach position, the approach position being a predetermined distance from a surface of the component; energizing the actuator during a second time period by performing a soft landing procedure wherein the performing includes moving the test-probe assembly from the approach position into soft contact with the surface of the component; latching the shaft in a fixed position so as to cause the test-probe assembly to apply a constant force to the surface of the component; and de-energizing the actuator while maintaining the shaft in the fixed position for a duration of time.