Actuator configuration for a rotary drive

摘要

A rotary drive includes: a support structure; and a linear actuator supported by the support structure. The linear actuator includes: a first member; a second member that moves in a linear direction relative to the first member when a drive signal is applied to the linear actuator; and a bearing arrangement supporting the first and second members within the support structure and enabling independent movement of the first member and the second member relative to the support structure. The rotary drive also includes a linear-to-rotary converter to which the second member of the linear actuator is coupled. The linear-to-rotary converter includes an output member having a rotational axis. During operation, the linear-to-rotary converter converts linear reciprocating movement of the second member of the linear actuator to rotary movement of the output member about the rotational axis.

主权项

1. A rotary drive comprising:
a support structure; and a linear actuator supported by the support structure, said linear actuator comprising: a first member; a second member that electromagnetically interacts with the first member when a drive signal is applied to the linear actuator, the electromagnetic interaction between the first and second members causing the second member to move in a linear direction relative to the first member; and a bearing arrangement supporting the first and second members within the support structure and enabling independent movement of the first member and the second member relative to the support structure; said rotary drive further comprising: a linear-to-rotary converter to which the second member of the linear actuator is coupled, said linear-to-rotary converter including an output member having a rotational axis, wherein during operation, the linear-to-rotary converter converts linear reciprocating movement of the second member of the linear actuator to rotary movement of the output member about the rotational axis.