High Precision Gimbal System

Innovative, volumetrically compact, rugged, precision drive mechanism for cost-effective improvement of power densities of position controllers, useable wherever maintenance may be difficult, space and weight is a premium and power consumption is critical. Proprietary drive uses cam gears formed as tracks cut into the faces of rotating flat disks, the disks separated by rolling balls, to achieve highly-efficient speed and torque conversion while simulating a rotating bearing. The cam gear tracks can be designed to yield any required conversion ratio from 1:1 to substantial speed reductions or moderate speed increases from any input, with highly efficient torque conversion. Flat plate technology enables manufacture in various metals, ceramics and/or polymers, for very favorable performance with volumetric, operational and cost efficiencies. Exceptionally high precision is available from small in-line drive mechanism. Phase I effort applies fundamental concepts to space-qualified materials, processes and lubricants, and specifically for use in highly compact and capable gimbal mechanism.