US Patent 9334936 High stiffness thrust component for linear actuator

An apparatus comprises an actuator having a motor, a housing and a thrust rod, where the actuator is configured to convert rotational motion of the motor into axial motion of the thrust rod. A movable holder is coupled to the thrust rod, and configured for axial motion of a tool coupling therewith. A bearing assembly is coupled to the actuator, extending along an axis thereof. The bearing assembly is configured to engage with the bearing to provide positional stability for the movable holder and tool coupling, when positioned along the actuator axis by motion of the thrust rod.