Patent ID: 6976565

Claim:
A load carrying axial positioner with overload energy absorption, the positioner comprising: an outer tube having first and second ends; a threaded actuator rod extending axially between the first and second ends of the outer tube; a drive operable to rotate the actuator rod; a threaded member threadably mounted on the actuator rod and axially movable between the ends of the outer tube, the threaded member including a radial flange extending toward the outer tube; a radially extending load ring axially movable within the tube and spaced axially from the radial flange a radially expandable spring positioned axially between the radial flange and the load ring, the spring operative to radially expand when compressed between the flange and the load ring to exert radial force against the outer tube, thereby generating resistance to axial motion of the load ring within the tube; the load ring having a plurality of axially extending force transmitting elements extending through one end of the outer tube; and the load ring with the force transmitting elements operatively engaging the threaded member for axial motion therewith; wherein the load ring and the force transmitting elements directly engage the threaded member in one direction of motion and the load ring and the force transmitting elements indirectly engage the threaded member through the spring in an other direction of motion.