Abstract: A linear actuator includes a housing and a cover tube that is supported relative to the housing. A nut engages the cover tube so as to prevent rotation of the nut relative to the cover tube. A lead screw rotatably engages the nut, wherein rotation of the lead screw causes the nut to travel along the lead screw.

Abstract: A linear actuator includes a housing and a cover tube that is supported relative to the housing. A nut engages the cover tube so as to prevent rotation of the nut relative to the cover tube. A lead screw rotatably engages the nut, wherein rotation of the lead screw causes the nut to travel along the lead screw.

Abstract: A linear actuator includes a hollow housing that is formed from a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of the housing is formed to support all of the components of the linear actuator therein, while the second portion of the housing functions to retain such components in the first portion of the housing. An end cap is secured to the end of the elongated tube portion to close the housing. The linear actuator includes a motor that operates through a clutch assembly to selectively rotate a screw. The clutch assembly limits the amount of torque that can be transmitted from the motor to the screw assembly. A nut is mounted on the screw assembly for linear movement in response to rotation of the screw assembly. An extension tube is crimped onto the nut for effecting linear movement of a workpiece. The structure of the nut is designed to facilitate an improved crimping connection between the nut and the extension tube.

Abstract: A ball screw and nut mechanism includes an elongated cylindrical screw having an outer helically threaded surface which extends through a cylindrical opening formed through a nut having a complementary helically threaded surface. A plurality of balls are disposed between the screw and the nut, each extending partially into both of the complementary threads to provide a rolling engagement between the screw and the nut. A load lock is provided to prevent the nut from moving axially relative to the screw when the balls are not present in the threads. The load lock includes a wire member which is generally helical in shape, having a pitch which is approximately equal to the pitch defined by the cooperating threads. The wire member is threaded partially through the threads, but does not normally inhibit rotation of the screw relative to the nut. The wire member is formed having a tang portion on one end thereof.