METROLOGY APPARATUS
First Claim
1. Metrology apparatus, comprising a first structure rotatably connected to a second structure by a bearing arrangement, the bearing arrangement including at least a first friction bearing comprising parts in sliding contact during rotation of the first structure relative to the second structure, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one magnet that relieves the load on the first friction bearing.
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Accused Products
Abstract
Metrology apparatus is described that includes a first structure rotatably connected to a second structure by a bearing arrangement. The bearing arrangement includes at least a first friction bearing including parts in sliding contact during rotation of the first structure relative to the second structure. The apparatus includes at least one magnet that relieves the load on the first friction bearing. Multiple magnets, provided in an attracting or repelling arrangement, may be used. The metrology apparatus may include an articulating probe head for a coordinate positioning apparatus.
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Citations
16 Claims
- 1. Metrology apparatus, comprising a first structure rotatably connected to a second structure by a bearing arrangement, the bearing arrangement including at least a first friction bearing comprising parts in sliding contact during rotation of the first structure relative to the second structure, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one magnet that relieves the load on the first friction bearing.
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14. Metrology apparatus, comprising at least a first friction bearing, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one magnet for relieving the load carried by the first friction bearing.
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15. Metrology apparatus comprising at least a first friction bearing, wherein the apparatus comprises a non-contact force generation means for relieving the load carried by the first friction bearing.
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16. Metrology apparatus, comprising a first structure rotatably connected to a second structure by a bearing arrangement, the bearing arrangement including at least a first friction bearing comprising parts in sliding contact during rotation of the first structure relative to the second structure, wherein the apparatus comprises at least one mechanical stop, wherein the parts of the first friction bearing that are in sliding contact are arranged to disengage when subjected to a mechanical shock, wherein the amount of displacement permitted during such disengagement is limited by the at least one mechanical stop.
Specification