Abstract: Method and apparatus for reducing backlash in a speed converter using balls to interact between input and output cams. Preferred embodiment features two-point contact of balls by drive input and driven output cam tracks under axial preload.

Abstract: Method and apparatus producing oscillatory motion output from a rotary input using balls to interact between input and output cams. Preferred embodiment features a speed reduction stage and an oscillation stage. Dwell periods can be provided as well as indexing to a specific location.

Abstract: A method and apparatus are provided for translating the speed of a drive shaft which is driven at a first speed to the speed of a driven shaft at a second speed, by providing a drive cam, a driven cam, and at least one reciprocating transfer element driven at a constant angular velocity and held in a slotted, fixed retainer, for interacting the two cams, such that the driven cam can be driven at the second speed by the drive cam driven at the first speed.

Abstract: A compound bearing element having a first rolling element with a second rolling element superimposed over the first rolling elements; a compound bearing element assembly having a first race, a second race and a plurality of compound bearing elements; a compound bearing element assembly having a third rolling element superimposed over a second rolling element; and a bearing assembly having a first race, a second race which includes a set portion and a securing portion, and a plurality of bearing elements.

Abstract: A solar energy concentrator system having a plurality of concentrator arrays with each of the arrays being made up of a plurality of adjacent longitudinally extending concentrator modules. Each of the concentrator modules has a semi-cylindrically-shaped housing and a semi-cylindrically-shaped cover in order to form an overall cylindrically-shaped structure which provides protection from adverse environmental conditions and withstands high wind loads. Situated within the cover and connected to the housing is a parabolically-shaped concentrator. The concentrator is made up of a plurality of parallelogram-shaped reflector panels mounted adjacent one another on a bias. This arrangement permits the ends of the panels to overlap adjacent modules so as to provide a substantially continuous reflector surface.