Relative axial motion of a pair of strut members is converted into rotation of an escapement mechanism, which in turn oscillates a balance wheel. If the rotational velocity exceeds a predetermined minimum, the balance wheel inertia initiates a momentary motion snubbing action. The device used to convert reciprocation of the strut members into rotary motion is releasable so as to permit the operational testing of the motion snubbing mechanism while the strut is mounted in its operational environment.
A pushing mechanism has a hollow slotted tube which receives radially extending pins of a threaded shaft. The tube is rotated by the rotor of a motor and is threadably received within an axially and rotationally fixed nut that is connected to a housing which, in turn, is fixed to the motor housing. Rotation of the shaft through the pins causes the shaft to move axially. An outer threadless end of the shaft extends beyond the housing for pushing outside mechanisms such as the stage of a microscope, a micro hardness tester or even a hydraulic cylinder.
An electromechanical transducer having a first element movable in relation to a second element, wherein the first and second elements perform a translational movement relative to one another. A transducer element mechanically coupled to the first element and second elements for converting the translational movement into an electrical signal. A transmission element converting the relative translational movement of the first and second elements into a rotating movement of the transducer element so as to produce the electrical signal. Applicant claims, under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.120, the benefit of priority of the filing date of Jun. 17, 1991, of International Patent Application PCT/NL91/00099, copy attached, filed on the aforementioned date, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Applicant also claims, under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.119, the benefit of priority of the filing date of Jun. 19, 1990, of Netherlands Patent Application No. 9001394, filed on the aforementioned date, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.
An energy absorber strut includes a pair of elongated drive nuts threaded internally to mate with a drive screw having high lead threads on opposite ends so that outward movement of the nuts on the screw rotates the screw in one direction and inward movement rotates the screw in the opposite direction. A mandrel mounted to rotate with the screw is restrained from rotation by a capstan spring which surrounds and grips it. Prestressed torsion springs connected to the ends of the capstan spring permit it to unwind slightly and drag with respect to the mandrel when the torsion springs are subjected to a predetermined torque.
