摘要 |
An X, Y, Z (and theta ) article positioner and method are disclosed in which two axial elements, one inclined at an angle alpha and the other inclined at an angle - alpha , are utilized in conjunction with each other to accomplish moves in a pure X or pure Z direction or a combination thereof. Each axial element is driven by a lead screw, which in turn is driven by a motor. Pure X movement is achieved by driving the lead screws the same amount, at the same rate, in the same direction. Conversely, to achieve a pure Z movement, the two lead screws are driven the same amount, at the same rate, but in opposite directions. In the preferred embodiment, three superposed and independently driven wedges are used to provide the desired single axis or combinational axis movement to position a workpiece in X, Y and Z with rotational movement of the three wedges providing theta axis positioning.
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