Multi-function actuator, and method of operating same

摘要

The improved multi-function actuator (20) broadly includes; a first mechanism (21) capable of bi-directional displacement; a motor (22) operatively arranged to selectively displace the first mechanism through a first displacement range; a second mechanism (24) capable of uni-directional displacement from a first position to a second position; a spring (25) operatively arranged to urge the second mechanism to move from the first position to the second position; a release mechanism (26) operatively arranged to release the spring when the first mechanism is moved beyond the first displacement range; a third mechanism (27) capable of bi-directional displacement; and a clutch (28) operated by the release of the spring to selectively disconnect the motor from the first mechanism and to selectively connect the motor to the third mechanism; whereby the motor may be operated to selectively control either the first mechanism or the third mechanism.