Pre-loaded pinion assembly for conveyor

Abstract

A linear actuator has a drive platform mounted relative to a drive assembly capable of moving the drive platform along a path. The drive platform may be independently engaged with the plurality of driven platforms to move each driven platform to a specified location along the path independent of another nearby driven platform. The drive assembly may be a rack and pinion assembly, and in some embodiments, the pinion is preloaded in position relative to the drive platform to facilitate engagement of the pinion with the rack and further maintenance.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] This disclosure relates to a novel and advantageous linear actuator system for moving multiple independent slides using a single drive member.

[0002] The background description provided herein is intended to present the overall context of this disclosure. To the extent described in this background section, the work of the currently identified inventors and aspects of the description that may not conform to the prior art at the time of submission are neither explicitly nor implicitly considered to be prior art of this disclosure.

[0003] Linear actuator systems present challenges when it comes to the flexibility of moving individual slides and the maintenance of the actuator system itself. Many actuator systems allow only one actuator to move a platform in one direction, or at least in the opposite direction. However, in many manufacturing environments, greater flexibility along the assembly line is often desired to move individual slides in and out of position. Furthermore, repairing the actuator system independently while other parts of the system remain functional is often challenging.

[0004] There is a need in the art for a linear actuator system that uses a single drive motor to move multiple platforms or slides, allowing for flexibility and modularity in assembly lines and other applications. Easy access to the motor assembly is also required for repair or replacement. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The following provides a brief overview of one or more embodiments of this disclosure in order to provide a basic understanding of these embodiments. This overview is not a comprehensive summary of all contemplated embodiments and is neither intended to identify key or essential elements of all embodiments nor to depict the scope of any or all embodiments.

[0006] In at least one embodiment, the linear actuator system includes: a guide member defining a path; a first driven platform; a second driven platform; and a drive platform engaging with the guide member. The drive platform has positions independently engaged with each of the first and second driven platforms, and also positions independently disengaged from each of the first and second driven platforms. The drive platform is mounted relative to a drive assembly for moving along the path in a path direction. Both the first and second driven platforms are each capable of moving along the path via the drive platform. When the drive platform is in the independently engaged position with the first driven platform and the independently disengaged position with the second driven platform, the drive assembly is capable of moving the drive platform in the path direction such that the first driven platform moves in the path direction without moving the second driven platform. When the drive platform is in the independently engaged position with the second driven platform and the independently disengaged position with the first driven platform, the drive assembly is capable of moving the drive platform in the path direction such that the second driven platform moves in the path direction without moving the first driven platform. When the drive platform is in a position independently engaged with both the first and second driven platforms, the drive assembly can move the drive platform in the path direction to move both the first and second driven platforms in the path direction. When the drive platform is in a position independently disengaged from both the first and second driven platforms, the drive assembly can move the drive platform without moving either the first or second driven platform.

[0007] In some embodiments, the drive assembly includes: a rack parallel to the guide member; and a rotatably driven pinion capable of engaging the rack for moving the drive platform, wherein when the pinion engages the rack and is rotatably driven in a first rotational direction, the drive platform moves relative to the rack in a first path direction, and when the pinion is rotatably driven in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, the drive platform moves relative to the rack in a second path direction. In some embodiments, a pinion mounting bracket is connected to the drive platform, wherein the pinion is in a preloaded position relative to the rack on the pinion mounting bracket for engagement between the pinion and the rack.

[0008] In some embodiments, the drive platform has a face, and the first driven platform has a face, wherein when the drive platform is in a position independently engaged with the first driven platform, the face of the drive platform is connected to the face of the first driven platform. The drive platform may also have at least one drive mating connector; and at least one driven mating connector on the first driven platform to connect the face of the drive platform to the face of the first driven platform.

[0009] In some embodiments, at least one of the drive platform, the first driven platform, and the second driven platform has at least one of a sliding member (such as a bushing) or a rolling member that engages with the guide member.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least one of the first driven platform and the second driven platform has a stopping device that engages with the guide member.

[0011] In at least one embodiment, a method of independently moving multiple platforms using a linear actuator system includes: setting up a drive platform and a plurality of driven platforms, wherein the drive platform is movably engaged with a guide member defining a path, wherein the drive platform is mounted relative to a drive assembly capable of moving the drive platform in a path direction along the path defined by the guide member; and releasably connecting the drive platform to at least a first engagement platform, the first engagement platform being one of the driven platforms. The method involves moving a drive platform and a first engagement platform along a guide member in a first path direction to a first selected position; disconnecting the drive platform from the first engagement platform, wherein the first engagement platform is in the first selected position; and moving the drive platform away from the first selected position in a second path direction. The method may further include: releasably connecting the drive platform to a second engagement platform selected from the driven platform; and... The drive platform and the engagement platform are moved to a second selected position along one of a first path direction and a second path direction along a guide member. In some embodiments, the first and second engagement platforms may be simultaneously connected to the drive platform, and both platforms may be able to move to a first desired position. The first engagement platform may then be able to disconnect from the drive platform at the first selected position, and the second engagement platform may then be able to move away from the first selected position to a second selected position in a second path direction. In some embodiments, the drive assembly includes a rack along the guide member and a rotatably driven pinion that engages with the rack and is rotatably driven by a motor; rotating the pinion in a first rotational direction moves the drive platform in the first path direction; and rotating the pinion in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction moves the drive platform in the second path direction. In some embodiments, one face of the drive platform may be releasably locked to one face of the first engagement platform. At least a portion of one face of the first engagement platform may overlap with one face of the drive platform. In some embodiments, the method further includes locking a stop device of the first engagement platform to hold the first engagement platform in the first selected position, thereby preventing further movement of the first engagement platform after disconnection from the drive platform.

[0012] In at least one embodiment, the linear actuator system described herein includes: a guide member defining a path; a drive platform engaging the guide member, the drive platform including a plate; and a drive assembly for moving the drive platform along the path in a path direction. The drive assembly includes a rack, a rotatably driven pinion, and a pinion mounting bracket connected to the drive platform, wherein the pinion is in a preloaded position relative to the rack on the pinion mounting bracket for engagement with the rack.

[0013] In some embodiments, for a preloaded pinion, there is a preloaded screw inserted into a hole in a plate of the drive platform; and a preloaded plate that engages with the mounting bracket and the pinion. A desired amount of preload is applied as the preloaded screw is raised or lowered within the hole, and the preloaded plate is raised or lowered accordingly to engage and disengage the pinion from the rack. The hole in the plate for receiving the preloaded screw can be on any surface of the plate. In some embodiments, the hole in the plate extends between the top and bottom surfaces of the plate. In other embodiments, the hole in the plate is located in the side surface of the plate. In other embodiments, the hole in the plate is located in the end face of the plate.

[0014] When the pinion engages with the rack and is rotatably driven in a first rotational direction, the drive platform moves relative to the rack in a first path direction. And when the pinion is rotatably driven in a second rotational direction opposite to the first path direction, the drive platform moves relative to the rack in the second path direction opposite to the first path direction. The linear actuator may further include: a first driven platform; and The second driven platform; wherein when the driving platform is in a position independently engaged with the first driven platform and in a position independently disengaged from the second driven platform, the driving component can move the driving platform in one of a first path direction and a second path direction to move the first driven platform without moving the second driven platform; and wherein when the driving platform is in a position independently engaged with both the first and second driven platforms, the driving component can move the driving platform in one of the first and second path directions to move both the first and second driven platforms. When the driving platform is in a position independently disengaged from both the first and second driven platforms, the driving component can move the driving platform in the path direction without moving either the first or second driven platform.

[0015] In some embodiments, the board can be removed from the drive platform to make access to the drive components.

[0016] In some embodiments, the drive assembly further includes a motor and a gearbox.

[0017] In at least one embodiment, a method of operating a linear actuator system having a drive platform includes: setting up the drive platform having a removable plate with at least one hole; setting up a rack mounted relative to a guide member defining a path for the drive platform; setting up a pinion assembly including a rotatably driven pinion, a pinion mounting bracket connected to the drive platform, and a preload plate engaging the pinion mounting bracket and the pinion, wherein the pinion is initially in an unengaged position relative to the preload plate, wherein in the unengaged position, the pinion does not engage with the rack; adjusting a preload screw in a hole in the plate of the drive platform to increase the preload force and raise the pinion to an engaged position relative to the preload plate, wherein in the engaged position, the pinion engages with the rack; and rotating the pinion engaged with the rack to move the drive platform along the path in a path direction. The method may further include removing the removable plate to access the pinion assembly. The method may also include adjusting the preload screw to decrease the preload force and lowering the pinion from the engaged position to an unengaged position. The pinion assembly may further include a motor and a gearbox.

[0018] While several embodiments have been disclosed, other embodiments of the present disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description of illustrative embodiments of the invention shown and described herein. As will be appreciated, various embodiments of the present disclosure are capable of being modified in a variety of obvious ways, all without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Therefore, the drawings and detailed description are to be considered illustrative rather than limiting in nature. Attached Figure Description

[0019] Although this specification concludes with claims that particularly point out and clearly claim protection for the various embodiments believed to form the subject matter of this disclosure, it is believed that this disclosure will be better understood from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a plan view of a linear actuator system according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure, wherein the drive platform engages only with a first driven platform.

[0020] Figure 2 According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure Figure 1 The diagram shows a plan view of a linear actuator system, in which the drive platform is disengaged from each of the driven platforms.

[0021] Figure 3 According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure Figure 1 The diagram shows a plan view of a linear actuator system, in which the drive platform engages only with the second driven platform.

[0022] Figure 4 According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure Figure 1 The diagram shows a plan view of a linear actuator system, in which a drive platform engages with a second driven platform, and the driven platform has been removed from its position. Figure 3 The first position in the sequence is moved to the second position.

[0023] Figure 5 According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure Figure 1 The diagram shows a plan view of a linear actuator system, in which the drive platform engages with a first driven platform and disengages from a second driven platform, which remains in its position. Figure 4 The second position.

[0024] Figure 6 According to at least one embodiment of this disclosure Figure 1 The diagram shows a plan view of a linear actuator system, in which a drive platform is engaged with both a first driven platform and a second driven platform, with the first driven platform positioned relative to... Figure 5 In different positions, the second driven platform is still in Figure 4 The second position.

[0025] Figure 7A and Figure 7B This is a schematic diagram of a linear actuator system according to at least one embodiment.

[0026] Figure 8A and Figure 8B This is a schematic diagram of a linear actuator system according to at least one embodiment.

[0027] Figure 9A and Figure 9B This is a schematic diagram of a linear actuator system according to at least one embodiment.

[0028] Figure 10A and Figure 10B This is a schematic diagram of a linear actuator system according to at least one embodiment.

[0029] Figure 11 This is a first side view of a driving platform and driving components according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0030] Figure 12 yes Figure 11 A perspective view of the driving platform and driving components shown.

[0031] Figure 13 yes Figure 12 The top view of the drive platform and drive components shown.

[0032] Figure 14 yes Figure 13 The second side view of the drive platform and drive components shown.

[0033] Figure 15 yes Figure 11 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the drive platform and drive components, with the pinion disengaged from the rack.

[0034] Figure 16 yes Figure 15 The diagram shows a cross-sectional view of the drive platform and drive components, in which a pinion engages with a rack. Detailed Implementation

[0035] This disclosure describes novel and advantageous linear actuator systems capable of independently manipulating or moving multiple driven platforms using a single drive. Additionally, this disclosure describes a method for preloading drive components within the system to facilitate the maintenance, repair, or replacement of the drive components.

[0036] In the following detailed description, numerous specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of some embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will understand that some embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, procedures, and / or components have not been described in detail to avoid obscuring the discussion. Furthermore, it should be understood that elements in the drawings that have the same reference numerals (e.g., 108 and 708) may have any or all of the features previously described for those elements, unless otherwise described to the contrary.

[0037] Figures 1 to 6 An embodiment of a linear actuator system 100 is shown, comprising a guide member 102, a contour member 104, a drive platform 106, a first driven platform 108, and a second driven platform 110. It should be understood that while the embodiment shown may depict only one drive platform and two driven platforms, the linear actuator systems disclosed herein may have more than two driven platforms, or may have multiple drive platforms and multiple driven platforms arranged or combined in any manner. Any embodiment of the linear actuator system 100 may have any number of driven platforms and drive platforms.

[0038] Guide member 102 defines the path generally shown as 112. In some embodiments, the guide member may be a track, rod, rib, or other structural member. In some embodiments, the guide member may be one or more rollers, V-rollers, or other guide rollers. Guide member 102 may be straight, curved, or angled, and combinations thereof, resulting in path 112 being linear, elliptical, curved, circular, angled, and combinations thereof. Figures 1 to 6As shown, guide member 102 is straight, and path 112 is linear. In some embodiments, contour member 104 may be spaced apart from guide member 102, wherein path 112 extends between contour member 104 and guide member 102. In some embodiments, contour member 104 may extend in a direction parallel to guide member 102. In some embodiments, support rails 114, 116 may extend perpendicular to guide member 102 between guide member 102 and contour member 104 to connect guide member 102 to contour member 104, which may contribute to structural support of guide member 102. In some embodiments, outer walls 118, 119 may extend parallel to guide member 102 and contour member 104, respectively. The inner surfaces of outer walls 118, 119 and support rails 114, 116 may define a cavity 115. In some embodiments, outer walls 118, 119 may be supported by one or more feet 117 to ground the linear actuator system.

[0039] Drive platform 106 engages with drive assembly 120 to move drive platform 106 along the platform in the path direction. In the case of multiple drive platforms in a single linear actuator system, there may be one or more drive assemblies. In at least one embodiment, each drive platform has its own independent drive assembly. Drive platform 106 may engage directly or indirectly with at least guide member 102, and in some embodiments, may also engage with contour member 104. In some embodiments, drive assembly 120 engages directly or indirectly with guide member 102. Figures 1 to 6 As shown, the drive assembly 120 includes a rack 121 and a rotatably driven pinion (not shown). The rack 121 can be mounted directly or indirectly to the guide member 102 or the outer wall 118. In at least one embodiment, the rack 121 is parallel to the guide member 102 and extends along the path 112. In some embodiments (such as...) Figures 1 to 6 In the illustrated embodiment, the drive assembly 120 includes a motor 122 and a gear reducer 124 that rotatably drives a pinion to move along a rack 121. In the illustrated embodiment, the drive assembly 120 may be disposed within a cavity 115 and be able to extend along a path 112 along the length of the cavity 115. In other embodiments, the drive assembly 120 may be partially or even entirely outside the cavity 115 and remain engaged with the drive platform 106 to move along a path.

[0040] The drive platform 106 has a plate 132 having a first end 133 and a second end 134, and the plate 132 can be configured to mount various devices or fixtures. The plate 132 may extend between the guide member 102 and the contour member 104, or between the outer walls 118, 119. In some embodiments, the drive platform may have: a first flange 135 connected to the plate 132 at the first end 133; and a second flange 136 connected to the plate 132 at the second end 134. The first flange 135 and the second flange 136 may act as protective devices and, in some embodiments, overlap with the outer walls 118, 119. The plate 132 may have a top surface 137, a bottom surface 138, a first side surface 139, and a second side surface 140. In some embodiments, the plate 122 can be removed from the drive platform 106 to expose some or all of the drive components 120 for maintenance, repair, or replacement of the drive components 120. In some embodiments, the drive platform may have a rolling member or bearing (not shown) that engages with the guide member 102 or the contour member 104. In some embodiments, the drive platform may have a sliding member or bushing (not shown) that engages with the guide member 102 or the contour member 104.

[0041] Multiple driven platforms 108, 110 may engage directly or indirectly with at least guide member 102, and in some embodiments may also engage with contour member 104. In other embodiments, driven platforms 108, 110 may engage only with contour member 104 without engaging with guide member 102. In a further embodiment, driven platforms 108, 110 may engage only with one of guide member 102 and contour member 104, and drive platform 106 may engage only with the other of guide member 102 and contour member 104. In other words, driven platforms may engage with path members or tracks different from drive platforms. Furthermore, driven platform 108 may engage only with one of guide member 102 and contour member 104, and driven platform 110 may engage only with the other of guide member 102 and contour member 104. In other words, any or all driven platforms may engage with path members or tracks different from the other driven platforms.

[0042] The first driven member 108 has a plate 142 having a first end 143 and a second end 144, and the plate 142 can be configured to mount various devices or fixing devices. The plate 142 may extend between the guide member 102 and the contour member 104, or between the outer walls 118, 119. In some embodiments, the drive platform may have: a first flange 145 connected to the plate 142 at the first end 143; and a second flange 146 connected to the plate 142 at the second end 144. The first flange 145 and the second flange 146 may act as protective devices and, in some embodiments, overlap with the outer walls 118, 119. In some embodiments, the drive platform may have: a first flange 145 connected to the plate 142 at the first end 143; and a second flange 146 connected to the plate 142 at the second end 144. The plate 142 has a top surface 157, a bottom surface 158, a first side surface 159, and a second side surface 160. In some embodiments, plate 142 may be removable. The first driven member 108 may have at least one rolling member or stopping device 161 that engages with guide member 102 or contour member 104. The stopping device may be a brake, a clamp, or some other device that prevents the first driven member 108 from moving during engagement.

[0043] The second driven member 110 has a plate 162 having a first end 163 and a second end 164, and the plate 162 can be configured to mount various devices or fixing devices. The plate 162 may extend between the guide member 102 and the contour member 104, or between the outer walls 118, 119. In some embodiments, the driven platform may have: a first flange 165 connected to the plate 162 at the first end 163; and a second flange 166 connected to the plate 162 at the second end 164. The first flange 165 and the second flange 166 may act as protective devices and, in some embodiments, overlap with the outer walls 118, 119. In some embodiments, the drive platform may have: a first flange 165 connected to the plate 162 at the first end 163; and a second flange 166 connected to the plate 162 at the second end 164. The plate 162 has a top surface 177, a bottom surface 178, a first side surface 179, and a second side surface 180. In some embodiments, plate 162 may be removable. The second driven member 110 may have at least one rolling member, bearing, or stopping device 181 that engages with guide member 102 or contour member 104. The stopping device may be a brake, clamp, or some other device that prevents the second driven member 110 from moving during engagement.

[0044] The driving member 106 has at least one driving mating connector 182, and each driven member has at least one driven mating connector 184. The driving mating connector 182 and the corresponding driven mating connector 184 can be releasably engaged or releasably locked. Figures 1 to 6 As shown, the driving mating connector is a pin, and the driven mating connector is a slot or cylinder. In some embodiments, the driven mating connector may be an actuated slot or cylinder. In some other embodiments, the arrangement may be reversed, with the driving mating connector being a slot and the driven mating connector being a pin. The cross-section of the pin may be circular, square, rectangular, or any other configuration. Other releasably engaging or releasably locking connection pairs may be used, such as magnets or by friction.

[0045] The linear actuator system of the present invention provides independent movement of driven members 108 and 110 through drive member 106. Figure 1 A drive member 106 is shown that engages with the first driven member 108 and disengages from the second driven member 110. At least as... Figure 1 As shown, the first driven member 108 is positioned between the support rail 114 and the drive member 106, and may even be adjacent to the support rail 114. The second driven member 110 is spaced apart from the drive member 106 and the support rail 116. Figure 2 As shown, the driving member 106 disengages from the first driven member 108, and as in Figure 1 Similarly, it also disengages from the second driven member 110. The driving member 106 can move freely along the path between the first driven member 108 and the second driven member 110. If it is desired to move the second driven member 110, the driving member 106 can be moved by the driving assembly along the guide member 102 in a first direction to engage with the second driven member 110. Figure 3 A drive member 106 is shown that engages with the second driven member while remaining disengaged from the second driven member 110. Figure 4 It is shown that the driving member 106 has driven the second driven member 110 from its position. Figure 3 The first position moves along the path toward the first driven member 108 to a second position relative to the first position. Figure 5 The drive member 106 is shown disengaging from the second driven member 110 again and engaging with the first driven member 108. Figure 6 It is shown that the driving member 106 has driven the first driven member 108 from its position. Figures 1 to 5 The first position moves along the path toward the second driven member 110 to a second position relative to the first position. For example... Figure 6As shown, a drive member 106 is engaged with both the first driven member 108 and the second driven member 110. The drive member is capable of moving the first driven member 108 and the second driven member 110 simultaneously, and then independently disengaging from one or both of the first driven member 108 and the second driven member 110.

[0046] The present invention envisions that the driving member can engage with the driven member in various ways through any or all surfaces of the driving member plate or the ends of the driving member. Figures 7 to 10 illustrate schematic diagrams of various ways in which the driving platform can move one or more of the driven platforms.

[0047] Figures 7A to 7B Top and side views of a drive platform 706, a first driven platform 708, and a second driven platform 710 are shown, respectively. The drive platform 706 has a top surface 737, a bottom surface 738, a first side surface 739, and a second side surface 740. The first driven platform 708 has a top surface 757, a bottom surface 758, a first side surface 759, and a second side surface 760. The second driven platform 710 has a top surface 777, a bottom surface 778, a first side surface 779, and a second side surface 780. The second side surface 760 of the first driven platform 708 is adjacent to the first side surface 739 of the drive platform 706. The first side surface 779 of the second driven platform 710 is adjacent to the second side surface 740 of the drive platform 706. In some embodiments, the top surface 737 of the drive platform 706 is aligned with the top surfaces 757 and 777 of the first and second driven platforms 708 and 710, respectively. In some embodiments, the bottom surface 738 of the drive platform 706 is aligned with the bottom surfaces 758 and 778 of the first driven platform 708 and the second driven platform 710. Figures 7A to 7B In the illustrated embodiment, by engaging one of the sides 739 and 740 of the drive platform with the corresponding side 760 of the first driven platform 708 or the corresponding side 779 of the second driven platform, the drive platform 706 can be in the path direction D1 or D2 One of them moves on either the first slave platform 708 or the second slave platform 710.

[0048] Figures 8A to 8B Top and side views of the drive platform 806, the first driven platform 808, and the second driven platform 810 are shown respectively. The drive platform 806 has a top surface 837, a bottom surface 838, a first side surface 839, and a second side surface 840. The first driven platform 808 has a top surface 857, a bottom surface 858, a first side surface 859, and a second side surface 860. The second driven platform 810 has a top surface 877, a bottom surface 878, a first side surface 879, and a second side surface 880. Figures 8A to 8BIn the illustrated embodiment, by engaging the top surface 837 of the drive platform with the corresponding bottom surface 858 of the first driven platform 808 or the corresponding bottom surface 878 of the second driven platform, or both, the drive platform 806 can be in the path direction D1 or D2 One of them can be moved up to either the first slave platform 808 or the second slave platform 810, depending on which slave platform is desired to be moved.

[0049] Figures 9A to 9B Top and side views of the drive platform 906, the first driven platform 908, and the second driven platform 910 are shown respectively. The drive platform 906 has a top surface 937, a bottom surface 938, a first side surface 939, and a second side surface 940. The first driven platform 908 has a top surface 957, a bottom surface 958, a first side surface 959, and a second side surface 960. The second driven platform 910 has a top surface 977, a bottom surface 978, a first side surface 979, and a second side surface 980. Figures 9A to 9B In the illustrated embodiment, by engaging the bottom surface 938 of the drive platform with the corresponding top surface 957 of the first driven platform 908 or the corresponding top surface 977 of the second driven platform 810, or both, the drive platform 906 can be in the path direction D1 or D2 One of them can be moved to either the first slave platform 908 or the second slave platform, depending on which slave platform is desired to be moved.

[0050] Figures 10A to 10BTop and side views of a drive platform 1006, a first driven platform 1008, and a second driven platform 1010 are shown, respectively. The drive platform 1006 has a top surface 1037, a bottom surface 1038, a first side surface 1039, and a second side surface 1040. The first driven platform 1008 has a top surface 1057, a bottom surface 1058, a first side surface 1059, and a second side surface 1060. The second driven platform 1010 has a top surface 1077, a bottom surface 1078, a first side surface 1079, and a second side surface 1080. In some embodiments, the top surface 1037 of the drive platform 1006 is aligned with the top surfaces 1057 and 1077 of the first and second driven platforms 1008 and 1010. Each of the drive platform 1006 and the driven platforms 1008 and 1010 has a first end 1033, 1053, 1073 and a second end 1034, 1054, 1074. In some embodiments, the first end 1033 of the drive platform 1006 is aligned with the second ends 1054 and 1074 of the first driven platform 1008 and the second driven platform 1010. In some embodiments, the top surface 1037 of the drive platform 1006 is aligned with the top surfaces 1057 and 1077 of the first driven platform 1008 and the second driven platform 1010. In some embodiments, the bottom surface 1038 of the drive platform 1006 is aligned with the bottom surfaces 1058 and 1078 of the first driven platform 1008 and the second driven platform 1010. Figures 10A to 10B In the illustrated embodiment, by engaging the first end 1033 of the drive platform 1006 with the corresponding end 1054 of the first driven platform 1008 or the corresponding end 1074 of the second driven platform 1010, the drive platform 1006 can be in the path direction D1 or D2 One of them moves to either the first slave platform 1008 or the second slave platform.

[0051] Figures 11 to 16 An embodiment of the drive platform 1106 and drive component 1120 is shown. Figures 11 to 16 A drive platform 1106 with a drive plate 1132 is shown, and the drive platform 1106 engages with a guide member 1102. The drive platform 1106 has a top surface 1137, a bottom surface 1138, a first side surface 1139, and a second side surface 1140. Figures 11 to 16 A drive-mate connector 1182 extending from a first side 1139 and a second side 1140 is shown. The drive platform 1106 has at least one rolling member, bearing, or stopping device 1141 that engages with the guide member 1102. Figures 11 to 16As shown, the drive assembly includes a rack 1121 and pinion 1123, a motor 1122, a gearbox 1124, a mounting bracket 1125, a preload plate 1126, and a preload screw 1127. The mounting bracket engages with the drive platform 1106 and the gearbox 1124. As shown, the mounting bracket 1125 engages with the bottom surface 1138 of the drive platform 1106. In at least one embodiment, the mounting bracket 1125 is removably engaged with the drive platform 1106. The preload plate 1126 is positioned between the gearbox 1124 and the mounting bracket 1125, and the preload plate 1129 has at least one slot 1128 and a pin 1129 engaging in the slot 1128. The slot is configured to receive a larger head of the pin and allow the pin's shaft to slide up and down within the slot. The preload plate 1126 also has a hole 1191 for receiving a preload screw 1127, which is inserted into a through hole in the drive platform 1106 extending between the top surface 1137 and the bottom surface 1138. Figure 15 As shown, pinion 1123 does not engage with rack 1121, and preload screw 1127 does not engage with hole 1191 on preload plate, but pin 1129 engages with slot 1128. This forms the preload position of pinion. Adjusting the engagement of preload screw 1127 with hole 1191 allows slot 1128 of preload plate to move upward toward bottom surface 1138 of drive platform, and the teeth of pinion 1123 engage with rack 1121, as shown. Figure 16 As shown.

[0052] As used herein, the terms “substantially” or “generally” refer to the extent or degree of completeness or near-completeness of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, a “substantially” or “generally” closed object means that the object is completely or nearly completely closed. In some cases, the exact permissible degree of deviation from absolute completeness may depend on the specific context. However, in general, near-completeness will have substantially the same overall result as if absolute and completeness were achieved. When used in a negative sense, the use of “substantially” or “generally” also applies to the complete or near-complete absence of an action, characteristic, property, state, structure, item, or result. For example, an element, combination, embodiment, or composition that is “substantially free” or “generally free” of a component or element may actually still contain that component, provided that it has no substantially measurable effect.

[0053] As used herein, any reference to "an embodiment" or "embodiment" means that a particular element, feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. The phrase "in an embodiment" appearing in different places in the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment.

[0054] As used herein, the terms “comprising,” “including,” “having,” or any other variation thereof are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus that includes a list of elements is not necessarily limited to those elements, but may include other elements not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article of manufacture, or apparatus. Furthermore, unless expressly stated otherwise to the contrary, “or” means inclusive or, not exclusive or. For example, condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or exists) and B is false (or does not exist); A is false (or does not exist) and B is true (or exists); and both A and B are true (or exist).

[0055] Additionally, the terms "a" or "an" are used to describe elements and components of the embodiments herein. This is done merely for convenience and to give a general meaning to the description. The description should be understood to include one or at least one, and the singular includes the plural, unless it clearly means otherwise.

[0056] Furthermore, the accompanying drawings depict preferred embodiments for illustrative purposes only. Those skilled in the art will readily recognize from the discussion herein that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein can be employed without departing from the principles described herein.

[0057] While specific embodiments and applications have been illustrated and described, it should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are not limited to the precise constructions and components disclosed herein. Various modifications, alterations, and variations can be made to the arrangement, operation, and details of the methods and apparatus disclosed herein without departing from the spirit and scope defined in the appended claims, as will be apparent to those skilled in the art.

[0058] While the systems and methods described herein have been described with reference to some exemplary embodiments, these embodiments are not limiting and are not necessarily mutually exclusive, and it is conceivable that specific features of various embodiments may be omitted or combined for use with features of other embodiments while remaining within the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A linear actuator system, the linear actuator system comprising: A guiding component that defines a path; A drive platform that engages with the guide member, the drive platform including a plate having a top surface, a bottom surface, and a first hole extending between the top surface and the bottom surface; A drive component for moving the drive platform along the path in a path direction, wherein the drive component includes: rack; Rotatable drive gear; A pinion mounting bracket is removably engaged with the drive platform; A preloaded plate, which engages with the pinion mounting bracket and the pinion, the preloaded plate having a second hole; and Preloaded screws In the first position, the preloaded screw is inserted into the first hole, and the rack does not engage with the pinion; and In the second position, the preloaded screw is inserted into both the first hole and the second hole and a preload is applied, and the rack engages with the pinion.

2. The linear actuator system of claim 1, wherein when the pinion engages with the rack and the pinion is rotatably driven in a first rotational direction, the drive platform moves relative to the rack in a first path direction, and when the pinion is rotatably driven in a second rotational direction opposite to the first rotational direction, the drive platform moves relative to the rack in a second path direction opposite to the first path direction.

3. The linear actuator system of claim 1, wherein the preload plate includes at least one slot and a pin engaging the slot.

4. The linear actuator system according to claim 3, wherein, In the first position, the pin is substantially near the top of the slot, and in the second position, the pin is substantially near the bottom of the slot.

5. The linear actuator system according to claim 2, wherein the linear actuator system further comprises: First passive platform; and Second slave platform; When the drive platform is in a position independently engaged with the first driven platform and independently disengaged from the second driven platform, the drive component can move the drive platform in one of the first path direction and the second path direction to move the first driven platform without moving the second driven platform; and when the drive platform is in a position independently engaged with both the first and second driven platforms, the drive component can move the drive platform in one of the first path direction and the second path direction to move both the first and second driven platforms.

6. The linear actuator system of claim 5, wherein when the drive platform is in a position independently disengaged from both the first driven platform and the second driven platform, the drive assembly is capable of moving the drive platform in the path direction without moving either the first driven platform or the second driven platform.

7. The linear actuator system of claim 1, wherein the plate is removable from the drive platform to access the drive assembly.

8. The linear actuator system of claim 1, wherein the drive assembly further comprises a motor and a gearbox.

9. A method of operating a linear actuator system having a drive platform, the method comprising: A drive platform is provided, the drive platform having a removable plate having at least a first hole; A rack is provided that is mounted relative to a guide member, the guide member defining a path for the drive platform; A pinion assembly is provided, the pinion assembly including a rotatable drive pinion, a pinion mounting bracket connected to the drive platform, and a preload plate engaging with the pinion mounting bracket and the pinion, the preload plate having a second hole, wherein the pinion is initially in an unengaged position relative to the preload plate, wherein in the unengaged position, the pinion does not engage with the rack; Adjust the preload screws in the first hole of the removable plate of the drive platform and the second hole of the preload plate to increase the preload force and raise the pinion to an engagement position relative to the preload plate, wherein the pinion engages with the rack in the engagement position; as well as Rotate the pinion that engages with the rack to move the drive platform along the path in the path direction.

10. The method according to claim 9, wherein the method further comprises: Remove the removable plate to access the pinion assembly.

11. The method according to claim 9, further comprising: Adjust the preload screw to reduce the preload force and lower the pinion from the engaged position to the unengaged position.

12. The method of claim 9, wherein the pinion assembly further comprises a motor and a gearbox.

Images