Linear Drive

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This invention describes a highly specialized linear drive actuator that uses a combination of flexible elements and bellows systems to enable precise, maintenance-free, and frictionless linear motion. The design features separate, gas-tight chambers operated by two different fluid media, making it especially suitable for use in extreme environments such as high temperature, ultra-high vacuum, or strong electromagnetic and neutron fields, like those found in fusion experiments.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Actuating shutters or protective covers in experimental fusion reactors (e.g., ITER)
• Positioning or moving sensors in environments with high radiation or electromagnetic interference
• Linear actuation for scientific equipment in ultra-high vacuum systems
• Precision movement in high-temperature industrial automation systems
• Engineering systems in aerospace or nuclear applications where reliability and maintenance-free operation are critical

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Frictionless and lubrication-free operation, providing high reliability and longevity
• Operates accurately under extreme environmental conditions (high temperature, ultra-high vacuum, strong electromagnetic fields, neutron radiation)
• Dual media operation for active bi-directional movement and integrated cooling
• Minimized wear and maintenance requirements due to absence of traditional sliding seals
• Precise linear movement with prevention of unwanted rotational or tilting motion
• Flexible modular design adaptable for different sizes and operational requirements

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a linear drive having a housing with an end plate and with a front plate and having a piston which is movably arranged in the interior of the housing and which is connected to a piston rod. The end plate, which is fixedly connected to the housing, has a central supply for a first medium, which central supply extends into the interior of the housing. The end plate or the housing has a means for the discharge of the first fluid medium and means for the supply and discharge of a second fluid medium. The front plate, which is fixedly connected to the housing, has an opening for the leadthrough of the piston rod out of the housing, wherein the front surface is sealed off with respect to the movable piston by a first bellows system. The piston in the interior of the housing exhibits a substantially cylindrical widened portion which is arranged around the central supply. The actuator is characterized in that at least one flexible element connects the substantially cylindrical widened portion of the piston and the central supply line, and in that a second bellows system is arranged between the substantially cylindrical widened portion of the piston and the end plate or the housing in such a way that two cavities separated from one another in a gas-tight manner are thereby formed in the interior of the actuator, wherein the means for the supply and discharge of the first fluid medium are connected to the first cavity, and the means for the supply and discharge of the second fluid medium are connected to the second cavity.