Development of an actuator for CAPS instrument on spacecraft Cassini

A cam program controlled system providing a continuous set point signal representing a time function relationship using an impulse or stepping drive motor. The drive motor impulses are electronically derived; and therefore, the system's time base or speed can be readily varied using switches and/or jumpers, instead of requiring gear train or motor changes. Also, the drive motor is coupled to the cam program through only a pinion and an anti-backlash drive gear. The cam follower arm is biased against the cam with a constant force. Controls are provided so that a cam scriber built into the cam follower and a controller which is normally provided in the system enables the system to be used for preparing new cams.