Gm Global Technolgoy Operations, Inc.

Fariborz Kayyod

Jeffrey Dan Ogden

Richard J Stuart

Donald E Hoffman

A linear to rotary actuator is disclosed having a fluid pressure operated diaphragm whose linear movement is translated into rotary movement of an output member by a helical coupling therebetween. The coupling comprises a coupling member that is insert molded in the diaphragm so as to extend therethrough and interlock therewith while preventing fluid from passing from one diaphragm side to the other. The coupling member has a combined guide and anti-rotation portion extending from one side of the diaphragm that slidably engages a stationary guide so as to guide linear movement while preventing rotational movement of the coupling member and further has a helix extending from the other side of the diaphragm which in one embodiment slidably engages in a slot directly in the output member whereby linear movement of the diaphragm forces linear non-rotational movement of the coupling member and thereby rotary movement of the output member. In another embodiment, the helix engages in a slot in a sector gear which meshes with a gear connected to the output member to turn same.

Actuator for converting linear motion to rotary motion and vice versa

A linear to rotary actuator is disclosed having a fluid pressure operated diaphragm whose linear movement is translated into rotary movement of an output member by a helical coupling therebetween. The coupling comprises a coupling member that is insert molded in the diaphram so as to extend therethrough and interlock therewith while preventing fluid from passing from one diaphragm side to the other. The coupling member has a combined guide and anti-rotation portion extending from one side of the diaphragm that slidably engages a stationary guide so as to guide linear movement while preventing rotational movement of the coupling member and further has a helix extending from the other side of the diaphragm that slidably engages in a slot in a section that meshes with a gear connected to the output member whereby linear movement of the diaphragm forces linear non-rotational movement of the coupling memmer and thereby rotary movement of the output member.

A vacuum operated actuator is provided with a centering mechanism that operates with a single spring to normally locate the output in a mid-position and also return same from both an extended position and a retracted position. The centering mechanism also includes a connector that may be changed to adjust the output for connection with the device to be actuated without changing the centering and return operation.

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Anderson, IN, United States of America

Fariborz Kayyod