A LINKAGE SYSTEM FOR A PARALLEL KINEMATIC CO-ORDINATE MEASURING MACHINE

摘要

A Linkage System for a Parallel Kinematic Co-ordinate Measuring Machine A system of linkages primarily to support the parallel kinematic architecture of a Pentapod measuring machine that uses multiple 'three legged stool' magnetic attachment points between precision spherical components. A means to attach two or more struts to a rigidly held magnetically permeable ball such that they can track around the focal point of the ball each with up to three degrees of freedom comprising: A magnetically permeable frame connected to each strut that can retain 3 spatially offset magnets and which can connect to a strut. Magnetic pads connected to the three points on said frame such that the magnets have a low friction surface on their sliding contact face substantially tangential to the ball around which they track. The pads have opposite polarities such that they can form a magnetic circuit through the ball to maximise the holding flux. The pads are arranged so that two or more can share the same ball and hence focal point.