Abstract: Embodiments of the present invention relate to a linear actuator in which the play and backlash in the linear motion of a stepper motor is reduced through the use of a torsion spring coupled to the stepper motor splined shaft. Also, embodiments of the invention include a controller designed for holding in the hand or mounting to a table with a bi-directional self-zeroing control knob which controls actuator speed and displacement. A flash memory unit may be included in some embodiments in order to save position information and other information about the linear actuator when power to the linear actuator is stopped.

Abstract: A composite includes granules of Type II superconducting material and granules of rare-earth permanent magnets that are distributed in a binder. The composite is a two-phase structure that combines the properties of the superconductor and magnets with the flexibility and toughness of a polymeric material. A bearing made from this composite has the load capacity and stiffness of a permanent magnet bearing with added stability from a Type II superconducting material.

Abstract: A composite includes granules of Type II superconducting material and granules of rare-earth permanent magnets that are distributed in a binder. The composite is a two-phase structure that combines the properties of the superconductor and magnets with the flexibility and toughness of a polymeric material. A bearing made from this composite has the load capacity and stiffness of a permanent magnet bearing with added stability from a Type II superconducting material.

Abstract: In a superconducting bearing, flux density and flux density gradient are increased between a magnetic source and a member of superconducting material. A plurality of magnets are magnetized end-to-end and stacked side-by-side in alternating polarity. Non-magnetic shims are disposed between the magnets. Flux lines flow between the ends of adjacent magnets and communicate with the member. Resulting is higher bearing load capacity and stiffness. When the member is made from a Type II superconducting material, the bearing provides support in both the radial and axial directions.

Abstract: A laminated structure for a superconducting bearing includes at least two magnets stacked in opposing polarity with at least one metallic shim being disposed between adjacent magnets. The multiplicity of opposing polarity magnets causes an increase in flux density gradient and, therefore, bearing stiffness. The laminated structure for a superconducting journal bearing has annular permanent magnets that are magnetized and stacked axially. This structure is disposed within a hollow cylinder made of superconducting material. When the cylinder is made of a Type II superconducting material, the superconducting journal bearing provides support in both the radial and axial directions.

Abstract: A cylindrical superconductor bearing is made of Type II ceramic superconductor, dispersed in an acrylic thermoplastic carrier in a ratio between 1:1 and 3:1 by volume. The cylindrical superconductor bearing is particularly useful as a magnetic journal bearing.

Abstract: A Type II ceramic superconductor is dispersed in an acrylic thermoplastic carrier in a ratio between 1:1 and 3:1. Resulting is a readily formable, thermosetting superconductor composite. The superconductor composite is particularly useful as a magnetic bearing or for fabricating devices to contain magnetic flux, because of its "flux pinning" effect.