Double chain linear actuator
AssigneeTeleflex Canada Incorporated
InventorsJon Scott, Eric Fetchko
Life of this patent
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Abstract
A linear actuator comprises a pair of chains. Each chain has a first link and a second link. The second link of each chain is adjacent to the first link of the chain. A pivotal connection pivotally connects the first and second links. The first link is pivotable about a pivot axis which is non-perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the first link. A chain connecting member connects the chains at distal ends thereof. A drive mechanism moves the chains between an extended position and a retracted position. At least a portion of each chain is helically wound when the chains are in the retracted position.
Claims9
A linear actuator comprising:
- a pair of chains, each chain having a first link and a second link, the second link being adjacent to the first link;
- a pin pivotally connecting the first link of each chain to the second link of said each chain, the pin having a longitudinal axis which non-perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the first link and being co-axial with a pivot axis about which the first link is pivotal;
- a chain connecting member connecting the chains at distal ends thereof, and
- a drive mechanism for moving the chains between an extended position and a retracted position, wherein at least a portion of each chain is helically wound when the chains are in the retracted position.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.