Infinitely adjustable engagement system and method

Abstract

A system for releasable engagement of two bodies where one of the bodies deforms the other body during the engagement process. The system includes a first body having an engagement surface that is made from a pseudo-elastic mater pseudo-elastic material is maintained at an operating temperature that is above the martensite-austenite transition temperature for the material. The second body has an indenter surface that contacts the pseudo-elastic material and exerts sufficient stress to convert the material from the relatively hard austenite state to the relatively soft martensite state wherein the material conforms to the indenter shape. Upon release of the indenter contact stress, the pseudo-elastic material changes back to its original shape.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION [0001] 1. Field of the Invention [0002] This invention relates generally to systems and methods for engaging two bodies together. More particularly, the invention involves the engagement of two bodies where, during the engagement process, one of the bodies deforms the other body. [0003] 2. Description of Related Art [0004] Clamping mechanisms are used for a variety of purposes including linear motors. One conventionally used clamping design includes locking surface teeth. While this arrangement can support large lateral forces, the distance between the teeth limits step size. Although micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) technology is helpful, teeth spacing reduction is limited, limiting step size and utility for high precision applications. Stepping speed is also significant, and ensuring proper teeth meshing for each step is often problematic, especially at high stepping frequencies. If teeth fail to mesh properly, damage and wear can occur, significan...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

[0007] In accordance with the present invention, systems and methods are provided for releasable engagement of two bodies. The systems include a first body that has an engagement surface that is designed for engagement with the indenter surface of the second body. As a feature of the present invention, the engagement surface of the first body is made from a pseudo-elastic material that is maintained at an “operating temperature”. The operating temperature is above the martensite-a

Problems solved by technology

While this arrangement can support large lateral forces, the distance between the teeth limits step size.

Although micro-electromechanical system (MEMS) technology is helpful, teeth spacing reduction is limited, limiting step size and utility for high precision applications.

Stepping speed is also significant, and ensuring proper teeth meshing for each step is often problematic, especially at high stepping frequencies.

If teeth fail to mesh properly, damage and wear can occur, significantly reducing the effectiveness of

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