POWER TRANSMISSION MECHANISM, AND ACTUATOR

摘要

A power transmission mechanism (10) comprises an outer ring (11) formed in an annular shape, a first intermediate ring (21) formed in an annular shape and disposed in the inner side of the annular shape of the outer ring (11), a second intermediate ring (31) formed in an annular shape and disposed in the inner side of the annular shape of the first intermediate ring (21), and a central member (41) disposed in the inner side of the annular shape of the second intermediate ring (31). A plurality of balls (51) are interposed in a freely rotatable state between the individual members. By controlling the actions of the outer ring (11), the first intermediate ring (21), the second intermediate ring (31) and the central member (41), moreover, the rotary motions can be converted into rotary motions and linear motions. On the other hand, the power transmission mechanism (10) can also be constituted, if equipped with a linear motor as drive means, into an actuator. Thus, it is possible to provide the power transmission mechanism and the actuator, which can have small height sizes and which can be more easily controlled than the prior art thereby to improve the resolution of position controls.