Back to results
US 6,298,569 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 multijoint 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.
Claims17
A counterbalance device for offsetting the weight of a rotatably maneuverable member, the device comprising:
- a transfer housing having a first portion rotatably mounted to a second portion;
- a bracket mounted to the first portion of said transfer housing;
- a cam following assembly mounted to said bracket, the cam following assembly having a barrel and a plunger;
- a spring element disposed in said barrel and acting on said plunger;
- a cam disposed on the second portion of said transfer housing with an outer surface contacting said cam following assembly.
2 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.