Integrated anti-backlash gearhead motor

Abstract

A drive system comprising an integrated gearhead motor system that produces relatively high torque output with minimal backlash. The present invention uses two axially mounted electric or air motors and gearhead assemblies integrated into a single unit. The two motor and gearhead assemblies are connected to concentric output drive shafts, and each output shaft mates to a respective gear of a split gear assembly. The split gear assembly is coupled to a drive shaft of a device that is to be driven by the system. A tachometer is coupled between the first motor and a position sensor is coupled to the drive shaft of the device that is to be driven. The tachometer and position sensor are coupled to a controller that is used to control the respective torques provided by the two motors in response to rate and position signals provided thereby. By controlling the relative amount of torque provided by the two motors, the split gear assembly removes the backlash from the gearheads and gear interfaces to the drive shaft of the device that is to be driven. The present invention incorporates the two motors and two gearhead assemblies into a single assembly, reducing weight and space requirements. The design of the present invention also permits retrofitting of the drive system into existing single motor drive systems.