N2 - A linear inchworm motor was developed for structural shape control applications. One motivation for this development was the desire for higher speed alternatives to shape memory alloy based devices. Features of the subject device include compactness (60 X 40 X 20 mm), large displacement range (∼ 1 cm), and large holding force capability (∼ 200 N). There are three active piezoelectric elements within the inchworm: two 'clamps' and one 'pusher'. Large displacements are achieved by repetitively advancing and clamping the pushing element. Although each pusher step is small, on the order of 10 microns, if the step rate is high enough, substantial speeds may be obtained (∼ 1 cm/s). In the past, inchworm devices have been used primarily for precision positioning. The development of a robust clamping mechanism is essential to the attainment of high force capability, and considerable design effort focused on improving this mechanism. To guide the design, a lumped parameter model of the inchworm was developed. This model included the dynamics of the moving shaft and the frictional clamping devices, and used a variable friction coefficient. It enables the simulation of the time response of the actuator under typical loading conditions. The effects of the step drive frequency, the pre-load applied on the clamps, and the phase shifts of the clamp signals to the main pusher signal were investigated. Using this tool, the frequency bandwidth, the optimal pre-load and phase shifts which result in maximum speed were explored. Measured rates of motion agreed well with predictions, but the measured dynamic force was lower than expected.

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AB - A linear inchworm motor was developed for structural shape control applications. One motivation for this development was the desire for higher speed alternatives to shape memory alloy based devices. Features of the subject device include compactness (60 X 40 X 20 mm), large displacement range (∼ 1 cm), and large holding force capability (∼ 200 N). There are three active piezoelectric elements within the inchworm: two 'clamps' and one 'pusher'. Large displacements are achieved by repetitively advancing and clamping the pushing element. Although each pusher step is small, on the order of 10 microns, if the step rate is high enough, substantial speeds may be obtained (∼ 1 cm/s). In the past, inchworm devices have been used primarily for precision positioning. The development of a robust clamping mechanism is essential to the attainment of high force capability, and considerable design effort focused on improving this mechanism. To guide the design, a lumped parameter model of the inchworm was developed. This model included the dynamics of the moving shaft and the frictional clamping devices, and used a variable friction coefficient. It enables the simulation of the time response of the actuator under typical loading conditions. The effects of the step drive frequency, the pre-load applied on the clamps, and the phase shifts of the clamp signals to the main pusher signal were investigated. Using this tool, the frequency bandwidth, the optimal pre-load and phase shifts which result in maximum speed were explored. Measured rates of motion agreed well with predictions, but the measured dynamic force was lower than expected.

HEAVY DUTY SHAFT sleeve:   This design of  our shaft sleeve has been used by major pump makers since 1961.  It comes in a range of materials such as:  4140, 316ss, and even titanium.  Because the ansi design is made with two options.  First solid shaft design, which if you have you have no need for a sleeve.  Second, sleeve design, This is where you will need this sleeve.  The sleeve allows a wearable and replaceable surface.  This is a more effective approach to pump repair.  It allows a more cost effective and time savings when compared with having to replace a complete shaft assembly.    It is completely interchangeable with over a dozen ansi pump brands and designs.  In fact many boast that this sleeve is probably the most used ansi pump sleeve in the world.  We are sure they are correct.  In our estimations there are pumps that are fitted with this type of shaft sleeve in the millions.  With thousands more being sold every month.  Operating in almost every country in the world and even to some of the most remote chemical and petrochemical applications.

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A linear inchworm motor was developed for structural shape control applications. One motivation for this development was the desire for higher speed alternatives to shape memory alloy based devices. Features of the subject device include compactness (60 X 40 X 20 mm), large displacement range (∼ 1 cm), and large holding force capability (∼ 200 N). There are three active piezoelectric elements within the inchworm: two 'clamps' and one 'pusher'. Large displacements are achieved by repetitively advancing and clamping the pushing element. Although each pusher step is small, on the order of 10 microns, if the step rate is high enough, substantial speeds may be obtained (∼ 1 cm/s). In the past, inchworm devices have been used primarily for precision positioning. The development of a robust clamping mechanism is essential to the attainment of high force capability, and considerable design effort focused on improving this mechanism. To guide the design, a lumped parameter model of the inchworm was developed. This model included the dynamics of the moving shaft and the frictional clamping devices, and used a variable friction coefficient. It enables the simulation of the time response of the actuator under typical loading conditions. The effects of the step drive frequency, the pre-load applied on the clamps, and the phase shifts of the clamp signals to the main pusher signal were investigated. Using this tool, the frequency bandwidth, the optimal pre-load and phase shifts which result in maximum speed were explored. Measured rates of motion agreed well with predictions, but the measured dynamic force was lower than expected.