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US 6,253,458 B1Granted
Adjustable counterbalance mechanism for a coordinate measurement machine
AssigneeFaro Technologies, Inc.
InventorsSimon Raab, John A. Bodjack
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A counterbalance mechanism for use with a multi-joint manually positionable measuring arm of a three dimensional coordinate measurement system provides a reversible and adjustable counterbalancing force to offset the weight of the arm and facilitate its movement. The counterbalance mechanism of the present invention acts within the plane of the joint minimizing the moment arm created by the joint and allowing for low overhung loads transmitted from the arm to the base.
Claims8
A counterbalance device for use with a rotatably maneuverable member, the device comprising:
- a ratchet assembly rotatably disposed outside the member;
- a transmission gear rotatably disposed at the center of rotation of said member in meshing engagement with said ratchet assembly;
- a cable spool having a spool gear rotatably disposed in the member in meshing engagement with said transmission gear;
- a cable attached to said cable spool;
- a spring element disposed within the member having a supported first spring end a second spring end attached to said cable.
2 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.