Precision linear actuator

A precision linear actuator for controllably positioning a lens element of an imaging system of a guided vehicle, comprising:

• a frame adapted to be affixed to said vehicle, said frame defining a pair of separated guide pockets, said frame defining an open inside cavity,
• a lever adapted to be installed within said frame inside cavity and having a pair of projecting hanger connections oriented within said guide pockets,
• pivot means for coupling said lever to said frame thereby enabling said lever to rotate about an axis relative to said frame wherein said hanger connections are movable along an arcuate path,
• actuator means coupled to said frame and said lever for controlling the position of said lever relative to said frame,
• a lens holder defining a pair of separated guide portions, each of said guide portions having first and second guide rails,
• bearing means connected to said frame and acting on said first and second guide rails for enabling said lens holder to move linearly with respect to said frame, and
• first and second leaf hanger springs engaging said hanger connections and coupled to said lens holder such that the movement of said hanger connection along said arcuate path caused by rotation of said lever is transmitted to said lens holder causing said lens holder to move linearly with respect to said frame.