Importance

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Abstract

A stepping actuator which is simple and compact in construction, and capable of converting rectilinear reciprocating motions into stepwise rotations of a predetermined stepping angle suitable for application of limited or limitless stepping rotations in one direction or in both forward and reverse directions. For these purposes, the stepping actuator is provided with at least one conversion mechanism for unidirectional stepping rotations, including: a rectilinearly reciprocating member 2 received in an outer frame 1 for axial back and forth movements therein; a rotating member 3 received in the rectilinearly reciprocating member 2 with an output shaft 4 led out axially through the outer frame 1; a circulative sunken track 11 formed on and around one of cylindrical surfaces at the interface between the outer frame 1 and the rectilinearly reciprocating member 2, and consisting of a large number of grooves 12 connected end to end in zigzag shape with inclinations alternately in opposite directions relative to the generator of the cylindrical surface; tracking projections 13 retained on the other cylindrical surface and resiliently pressed into the circulative sunken track 11 for travel therealong; and groove selector means in the form of a downwardly stepped surface provided contiguously to the tail end of each groove 12 of the sunken track 11, dropping the bottom surface of the sunken track to a lower level at the head end of a forwardly succeeding groove in the direction of circulation of the tracking projections, and urging the tracking projections 13 to select positively a forwardly succeeding groove when their travel direction is reversed at the connected ends of the grooves at the opposite sides of the sunken track 11 on reversals of the axial movements of the rectilinearly reciprocating member.

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First Claim