Showing papers on "Actuator published in 1975"

Exhaust brake valve

Abstract: An exhaust brake valve assembly structurally arranged to provide reliable operation with relatively quick response. The assembly includes a sliding gate valve member driven by a power actuator through a lost motion connection which generates a desirable impact force on the gate to overcome static frictional forces. The lost motion connection cooperates with a relief port in the gate to relieve peak pressure forces on the gate just prior to opening movement to additionally improve opening reliability and response. Still further, the actuator includes a spring return arrangement in which the force rate adjacent the closed gate position is substantially greater than the force rate at the open position so that adequate reserve return force is developed for opening while only a minimal spring force resists piston movement in the initial opening movement. A quick release valve is provided on the actuator to rapidly exhaust fluid from the working chamber of the actuator to develop a high level of kinetic energy during the lost motion period. The actuator is protected from extreme temperature by a heat barrier plate interposed between the valve housing and actuator. A piston rod of the actuator is sealed by a radially floating seal and includes a reduced diameter portion and opposed shoulders for simple connection with the valve gate.

Dual output variable pitch turbofan actuation system

Abstract: An improved actuating mechanism is provided for a gas turbine engine incorporating fan blades of the variable pitch variety, the actuator adapted to rotate the individual fan blades within apertures in an associated fan disc. The actuator includes means such as a pair of synchronizing ring gears, one on each side of the blade shanks, and adapted to engage pinions disposed thereon. Means are provided to impart rotation to the ring gears in opposite directions to effect rotation of the blade shanks in response to a predetermined input signal. In the event of system failure, a run-away actuator is prevented by an improved braking device which arrests the mechanism.

Multi-purpose stapler

Abstract: A multi-purpose stapler is provided comprising a stapling means, a staple removing means and a hole punching means with shiftable actuator mounted on a common base. An actuator is provided which is movable between first and second positions. In the first position of the actuator, downward movement of a press handle of the stapler is limited so that stapling cannot occur but punching and staple removing can occur. In the second position of the actuator stapling can occur. The actuator functions to depress a punch rod when in its first position.

Disk brake construction having stamped support

Abstract: A disk brake assembly including a stamped sheet metal integral body having at least one substantially flat side wall with top and end portions projecting from the top and end edges, respectively, of the side wall. An actuator opening is formed in the side wall, and a flange projects from the periphery of the opening to define an integral sleeve. A disk brake actuator module is received in the opening and sleeve, the module including a cylindrical housing having a closed end and an open end with an actuator mounted therein and axially extendable and retractable with respect to the housing in response to fluid pressure changes in the housing. The module housing is received in the sleeve with a friction fit and is formed with a retaining flange that engages the side wall of the integral body to prevent axial movement of the housing in one direction relative to the side wall.

Semi-automatic flight control system utilizing limited authority stabilization system

Abstract: A flight control system utilizing a limited authority stability augmentation system having a long term attitude and/or path control input to enhance the automatic flight capability of the stability augmentation system. A position sensor coupled with the limited authority stability augmentation actuator provides an indication to the human pilot via a suitable indicator when the actuator is near or at the limit of its authority thereby permitting the human pilot to effect manual trim, thus recentering the actuator.

Hydraulic pressure amplifier

Abstract: A hydraulic pressure amplifier with a scavenging pump operable to establish a negative return line pressure to effect a positive and rapid return of the rod of a one-way hydraulic actuator and thereby eliminate the necessity of third line-type systems that depend on gravity and/or spring-loaded actuators to return the hydraulic fluid to the tank.

Electrohydraulic proportional actuator apparatus

Abstract: An electrohydraulic proportional actuator for converting an electrical input signal to proportional mechanical output. Fluid power may be derived from pressurized fuel or lubricating oil of an associated engine. The actuator may be used to drive any engine function requiring modulated control. The mechanical output is proportional to the electrical input. The actuator includes mechanical feedback to linearize the response function, thus eliminating the need for closed loop operation of the system in which the actuator is used. Both linear and rotary actuators are disclosed in various embodiments. Each type is capable of operation with either a proportional solenoid and valve or a force rebalance solenoid and valve.

Fail safe valve actuator

Abstract: A valve actuator employs a torsion spring type clutch to engage and disengage a drive motor and an output shaft. The torsion spring normally engages and is connected to a gear which may be engaged by a dog to cause disengagement of the clutch. The output shaft carries a pinion which is engaged with a rack carried on a piston which is slidable in a closed fluid containing cylinder. The piston includes an axial passageway with a metering orifice therein which smoothes the operation of the actuator and provides positive stops for the output shaft with a minimization of impact between the piston and the ends of the cylinder.

Color changer for spotlights

Abstract: A slide changer mechanism for a spotlight in which each slide is operated by a separately controlled actuator through a crank arm. The changer mechanism is of modular construction so that it can be adapted to operate with existing spotlights.

Load responsive switch actuator

Abstract: A load responsive switch actuator mechanism comprises a body of deformable material (e.g., an elastomeric material) which deforms under either compressive or tensile forces to actuate a switch. In one preferred embodiment the deformable material is in the form of a solid, generally cylindrical configuration which, when compressed, will expand in diameter to actuate a load responsive switch. In a second preferred embodiment the deformable material is in the form of a generally cylindrical tube which, when subjected to a tensile load, will decrease in diameter and actuate a load responsive switch.

Cyclical bi-directional rotary actuator

Abstract: A thermally powered rotary actuator is disclosed which is used for positioning a shaft in first and second positions which are disposed 180° apart. A pair of heat extensible springs are attached to the shaft and to the frame of the rotary actuator for selectively rotating the shaft from one of its two positions to the other position upon the application of heat to one of the heat extensible springs. The heat extensible springs are preferably constructed from the alloy 55-Nitinol. In the preferred embodiment, a detent mechanism is provided for locking the rotatable shaft in its two rotary positions.

Automatically engaged emergency parking brake

Abstract: A control system for a vehicle parking brake-actuator which releases the brake when subjected to fluid under pressure and which automatically sets the brake by spring force when the fluid pressure is relieved therefrom, the actuator being controlled by a valve which blocks or allows the relief of fluid pressure from the brake-actuator. The control system includes a solenoid for moving the valve to pressure-blocking position, a spring for moving the valve to pressure-relieving position when the solenoid is de-energized, and includes an electrical circuit for de-energizing the solenoid and causing an automatic setting of the brake if the vehicle engine is stopped or if there is a loss of oil pressure or electrical power. The brake can also be set by the operator when the engine is running.

Safety brake for bicycles

Abstract: An apparatus for use on bicycles having a front brake, a rear brake, a left hand brake lever and a right hand brake lever wherein, regardless of whether the left or right hand brake lever is actuated, or both brake levers simultaneously, the rear brake of the bicycle is preferentially actuated such that the rear brake is applied first and with more force than the front brake. The apparatus includes a housing for mounting on the bicycle, a front brake actuator connected to a cable extending to the front brake and a rear brake actuator connected to a cable extending to the rear brake one of the actuators having two pulleys thereon, each of the cables from the brake levers looping around the pulleys and attaching to the other brake actuator, and including a spring applying a bias to resist the movements of the front brake actuator.

Automatic braking arrangement for a windlass

Abstract: A hoist is described which includes a windlass for taking up and paying out a line which operates a block and tackle. The windlass is provided with a brake which is arranged to operate automatically to prevent unwanted paying out of the block and tackle line whenever a load is on the block and tackle. The brake operating mechanism includes a load sensing lever arm mounted for limited pivotal movement in response to a load being on the block and tackle, and linkage connecting such lever arm with a brake actuator for transmitting its motion to the actuator. The actuator is adapted to respond to such motion by applying the brake on the windlass to prevent its rotation in response to the force of the load.

Safety blow-out protection for fluid actuators

Abstract: Excessive pressure is relieved in a fluid actuator by controlled destruction of an internal extensible diaphragm without damage to the exterior structural integrity of the actuator. Upon occurrence of such abnormal excessive pressure in the actuator pressure chamber, the diaphragm, which is otherwise substantially supported, is permitted to deform at a known location until fracturing thereof occurs to release fluid from the pressure chamber. In one form the invention comprises an opening in the actuator guide cap and in other forms comprises openings in the actuator piston or an enlargement in part of the guide cap.

Conveyor lubricating apparatus

Abstract: A conveyor lubricator for lubricating moving parts in a conveyor mechanism comprises an air operated oil injector that dispenses a measured quantity of oil on each part to be lubricated when such part reaches a predetermined position on the track; an air assist mechanism that generates an air flow across the oil outlet so as to urge the oil toward said predetermined position; and a cam operated actuator valve that provides air pressure to actuate the oil injector and air assist whenever a moving part reaches said predetermined position. A timed pulse valve connected to the actuator valve automatically deactivates the air flow after a predetermined period of time, even if the actuator valve still remains actuated by continued engagement with the conveyor. More than one cam operated actuator valve can be employed in the system in order to provide lubrication for an increased number of moving parts of the conveyor mechanism with a single set of oil injectors. The cam operated actuator valve includes an adjustment mechanism that permits placement of the valve in different positions. The lubricator also can include a selective actuation mechanism in order to actuate and deactuate the system whenever desired. An air counter can be employed to automatically actuate and deactuate the system at regular intervals.

Retainer mechanism for vehicle brake actuators

Abstract: In a brake actuator an electric motor is operable when energized to hold a resilient brake applying assembly in a retracted energy-storing position and to retain the assembly in the retracted position.

Lock assembly for a vehicle disc brake

Abstract: A disc or drum brake fluid pressure actuator incorporates a lock actuator strut acting on an inner part of a telescopic piston assembly, of which the inner and outer parts are normally rendered effectively unitary by pre-stressed spring which can, however, deflect under excess pressure to permit extension of the lock actuator strut when it is desired to operate the strut for parking purposes. An hydraulic control system for operating the actuator is also described and illustrated.

Switch assembly having rotatable, pivoted or slidable actuator and diode structure mounted between actuator contacts

Abstract: A manually actuated switch includes a pair of terminals forming switch poles and a knob which is manually actuated to complete or interrupt an electrical circuit across the poles. A pair of spaced contacts are embedded in the knob and resiliently grip therebetween a diode which controls current direction of the completed circuit.

Electromagnetic actuator comprising a plunger core

Abstract: An electromagnetic actuator having a plunger core and a stationary ferromagnetic core, both surrounded by an electrical winding, is provided with means for adjusting the axial position of the stationary core in relation to the winding, said means being operable from outside the actuator.

Actuator control system

Abstract: A control system for controlling the operation of a valve actuator The system includes a control valve for conveying operating fluid to the actuator in response to an actuator control signal A single conduit operably connected to the actuator control valve both supplies operating fluid to the control valve and conveys an actuator control signal to the control valve

Drive arrangements for aircraft control surfaces

Abstract: A drive arrangement for an aircraft control surface has an inner shaft extending through a hollow outer shaft. The inner and outer shafts are drivingly connected at their adjacent ends. A drive input is coupled to the outer shaft intermediate the ends thereof, and an actuator for a control surface is drivingly connected to the outer shaft between the drive input and one of the ends. The arrangement permits the actuator to be driven even if the outer shaft fractures between the actuator and the drive input.

Flashlight marking implement

Abstract: A marking implement having a self-contained source of illumination arranged to project a beam of light encircling the marking point on a surface. Angular displacement of a switch actuator connects the illumination source to either an external source of electrical energy for prolonged energization or to internal batteries designed to provide electrical energy for shorter intervals. A plug-in device establishes the energizing circuit from the external source, by-passing the internal batteries.

Actuator system with ambient temperature compensation

Abstract: An actuator system for use in an electrical relay or the like. An actuator member is carried by a frame and is movable between a first and a second position, being biased toward its first position by a spring and having an actuating wire coupled between it and the frame. This wire is stretched from its original length to a second length by the spring when the actuator member is in its first position. The wire is of a selected metal alloy which, upon being heated, shortens its length and thus causes the tension in the wire to increase an amount sufficient to overcome the bias of the spring and to move the actuator member towards its second position. The actuator system further includes selectively operable heating means for the wire and an ambient temperature compensator for insuring that upon operation of the heating means, the wire is sufficiently heated to effect movement of the actuating member from its first to its second position and for preventing the wire from being overstressed, regardless of changes in ambient temperature within a limited range.

Actuator unit for vehicle brake testing

Abstract: A portable vehicle testing unit which can be placed on the floor of the driver's compartment of any vehicle to be tested and which can be adjusted to the toeboard of the vehicle in such a way that a fluid pressure actuator mounted on the testing unit is almost in engagement with a vehicle control member, such as the brake pedal or accelerator treadle, so that the fluid pressure actuator will immediately move the control member upon build up of fluid pressure in the actuator. A feature of the design permits measuring the reaction force of the pedal (or treadle) against the fluid pressure actuator during the actuating stroke of the vehicle control member.

Precision fluid dispensing and mixing system

Abstract: A plurality of fluid pumps are programmed to deliver precise amounts of fluids which are mixed to produce a desired formulation. Each pump has a calibrated actuator attached along the length of the piston rod. A switch is mounted adjacent the segmented actuator to monitor the piston travel and supply information signals to the programming console for individual control of piston travel and consequently of the fluid being pumped.

Ripper for tractors and similar vehicles

Abstract: A scarifier or ripper attachment for a tractor or like vehicle, comprising a support structure carrying a pivoted arm on the free end of which is a pivoted tool-carrying frame. The elevation of the arm is controlled by an hydraulic elevation actuator and the inclination of the tool with respect to the arm is controlled by an hydraulic attitude control actuator. The hydraulic circuit of the two actuators includes an auxiliary distributor having three positions in one of which the two actuators are connected in series so that one retracts when the other extends, and in the other two of which one or the other actuator is isolated so that the other can be controlled independently. The relative diameters of the two actuators are such that in the first position of the auxiliary distributor the tool is held in a fixed orientation in relation to the ground as the arm is turned through its full angle.

Steering column mounted multiple switch assembly

Abstract: A multiple switch assembly mounted on a steering column has an actuator for operating a direction signal switch, a headlamp dimmer switch and washer/wiper switches, each operated by a selective movement of a common actuator lever.

Speed control device

Abstract: A regulating servo loop for controlling the speed of an internal combustion engine to a preselected rate, including a tachometer connected for rotation of the output of the engine, a mechanical actuator controlling the carburetor opening of the engine and a resonating error circuit for detecting the error between the preselected rate and the tachometer output. The mechanical actuator includes a D.C. servo motor which is driven in the correcting direction by a transistor circuit according to the phase lag of the resonating circuit.

Actuator having universal-type joint assembly

Abstract: The present invention pertains to an actuator having a unique universal-type joint assembly incorporated therein. The actuator comprises a stationary member and a movable member mounted for movement with respect to the stationary member. The actuator further comprises a first drive means, such as a drive screw, and linkage means connects the first drive means to the stationary member and provides universal-type movement. The linkage means includes a substantially non-torque-absorbing thrust transmitting element. A second drive means, such as a drive nut, is threadedly connected to the drive screw for reciprocation therealong and is also connected to the movable member of the actuator.