Abstract: A positioning apparatus is disclosed which in one embodiment includes two orthogonal tracks, each having a rail, and a carriage coupled to the tracks and having pulleys in frictional engagement with the rails. Rotation of the pulleys causes the carriage and/or one of the tracks to be moved in one of the directions. In another embodiments only one track is used for translation in a single direction.

Abstract: A holder for an optical device such as a lens includes a frame and a plurality of arms pivotably attached to the frame. A resilient member urges the arms toward a closed position in which the arms meet at a common center within the frame. Linking members insure that the arms move simultaneously. The arms are moved away from the common point to accept and secure the optical device.

Abstract: A drive mechanism and/or transmission for transmitting power or motion to an object includes an input driving member, an output driven member, and a rigid coupling member. By changing the arrangement of the driving and driven members and the shape of the rigid coupling member, the object can be either rotated continuously, rotated in a reciprocated motion, or translated.

Abstract: A clamping or locking mechanism for interlocking two members includes a shaft slidably disposed in corresponding openings of the members. The shaft has a curved surface and one of the members includes a channel traversal to the opening of this member. In the channel there is an actuating element having a curved surface matching the curved surface of the shaft. As the actuating means is urged toward or away from the shaft, the curved surfaces cooperate to force the shaft to move axially clamping the two members.

Abstract: A tilting apparatus includes at least a pair of elements with curved surfaces arranged to tilt a platform with respect to a base. The apparatus is capable of tilting with a resolution in the order of a fraction of an arc second, with precision, reliability, and repeatability.

Abstract: A device for moving or positioning an object makes use of a track on a base and a circular groove on the platform. The platform holds the object. Balls are captured between the platform and the base which permit independent translation and rotation of the platform with respect to the base, by the simultaneous rolling and sliding of the balls. A mechanism for preloading and interlocking the base and the platform is also provided. The mechanism includes a shaft passing between the platform and the base and two channels formed in the platform. Elements disposed in the channels urge the shaft in opposite directions or selectively locking and disengaging of the platform and the base.