Abstract: An actuator assembly adapted to selectively cause an input disk of a clutch/brake assembly to engage an output disk of a clutch/brake assembly. The actuator assembly includes a movable piston integrated with the clutch/brake assembly. At least a portion of the clutch/brake assembly defines an expansible chamber in combination with the piston. The piston is movable in the clutch/brake assembly to selectively cause the input disk to engage the output disk. The actuator assembly also includes a housing positioned remotely from the clutch/brake assembly, and a fluid compressor located within the housing. The fluid compressor is operable to generate a fluid pressure and provide the fluid pressure to the expansible chamber to move the piston.

Abstract: An actuator device self-contained within a housing and adapted to move an object. The actuator device includes a movable piston positioned in a cylinder portion of the housing. The cylinder portion defines a longitudinal axis, whereby the piston is movable along the longitudinal axis in response to an accumulation of air pressure within the cylinder portion. The actuator device also includes a rod coupled to the piston for movement with the piston. The rod at least partially extends outside of the housing to couple to the object. Further, the actuator device includes an air compressor located within the housing. The air compressor transfers air from a location in the housing outside the cylinder portion to a location inside the cylinder portion.

Abstract: An actuator device self-contained within a housing and adapted to move an object. The actuator device includes a movable piston positioned in a cylinder portion of the housing. The cylinder portion defines a longitudinal axis, whereby the piston is movable along the longitudinal axis in response to an accumulation of air pressure within the cylinder portion. The actuator device also includes a rod coupled to the piston for movement with the piston. The rod at least partially extends outside of the housing to couple to the object. Further, the actuator device includes an air compressor located within the housing. The air compressor transfers air from a location in the housing outside the cylinder portion to a location inside the cylinder portion.

Abstract: A lawn tractor has a pivoting shaft mechanism and a tilt steering mechanism. The lawn tractor includes a frame, a first wheel, a steering implement for steering the wheel, and a power steering pump for use in providing power for the steering of the first wheel. The pivoting shaft mechanism includes a steering shaft having a first end that is connected to the steering implement and that is pivotable about its second end. The pivoting shaft mechanism also includes a pin operatively connected to the second end of the steering shaft, a connecting shaft having a first end operatively connected to the second end of the steering shaft and a second end operatively connected to the power steering pump, and a pivot coupling for translating rotational motion from the pin to the first end of the connecting shaft.