Apparatus and method for accurate, precise, and adjustable kinematic coupling

摘要

An adjustable kinematic coupling for accurate and precision coupling of mechanical component parts, surfaces or assemblies and the like, where low-cost, accurate, and repeatable coupling are desired. The coupling may be used in applications that require high precision coupling and where the relative location of coupled components must be variable or adjustable. Kinematic interfaces employ convex members assembled to a first component that mate with corresponding concave elements or concave grooves in a second component so that the six relative degrees of freedom (or fewer if desired) between the two components are deterministically constrained. Kinematic elements are attached to the coupled component via a connection that may experience controlled rotation with respect to the component. In addition to rotation, kinematic elements may undergo controlled translation parallel to the mating direction of the coupling. The relative position of the coupled components may be adjusted by revolving one or more of the kinematic elements, thus enabling single or multi-degree of freedom control between the coupled components. Relative movement in additional degrees of freedom may be achieved by controlled translation of the kinematic elements with respect to the component in which they are housed.