Support structure with features for precision leveling

摘要

A support structure is provided that can comprise a central support member and leveling devices arranged in a deployed configuration where the leveling devices are radially offset from the central support member. In one embodiment of the support structure, each of the leveling devices can comprise an actuator assembly for fine positioning of a support plane of the support structure. The actuator assembly can communicate with a control system, and in one example the control system is operatively configured to monitor the position of the support plane, providing feedback in the form of a control that operates the actuator to adjust the orientation of the support plane.

主权项

1. A support structure, comprising:
a central support member defining a central support axis, the central support member comprising a pivot end with a first support pad that contacts a deployment surface when deployed and is configured to articulate about a pitch axis, a roll axis, and a yaw axis when in contact with the deployment surface and a support end opposite the pivot end, the support end defining a plane orthogonal to the central support axis; a central collar coupled to the central support member, the central collar having a position on the central support axis, the position describing a distance from the pivot end; a leveling device coupled to the central collar, the leveling device comprising an actuator for generating motion along a leveling device axis, the motion causing movement of the plane; a leveling collar coupled to the actuator and configured to move independent of the actuator; a support stay assembly comprising a first elongated member and a second elongated member, each coupled with the leveling collar, wherein the first elongated member couples with the central support member proximate the support end, wherein the second elongated member couples with the central collar, and wherein each of the first elongated member and the second elongated members are configured to move together with the central collar; a second support pad aligned with the leveling device axis, the second support pad comprising a spherical joint permitting rotation about an articulating axes, a leveling indicator comprising a tilt sensor proximate the support end; and a controller in communication with the tilt sensor, the controller providing a control to the actuator, the control for controlling the motion of the actuator, wherein the leveling device is operative in a first configuration and a second configuration, wherein each of the first configuration and the second configuration describe a radially offset relation of the leveling device relative to the central support axis, and wherein the first configuration changes to the second configuration in response to the position of the central collar.