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Subject: Re: Retrograde DEC
From: Robert Fields
Reply To: mapug@shore.net
Date: Thu Dec 21 00:18:05 1995

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On Thu, 21 Dec 1995 SimHar@aol.com wrote:
> (d) Since the worm cannot keep climbing up the gear forever, it''s most
> likely motion is that it is balanced against the spring, sometimes climbing
> above the average, and sometimes "falling" below the average point - ie:
> retrograde motion.

I don't see how this would result in stored energy that would cause
retrograde motion. I think this would just be a component of the
perceived backlash. Oncce the worm reverses direction and the worm
travels back down it seems that it would simply increase the backlash time.
What am I missing ?

>
> The point is that there are such tiny movements involved that one would
> expect fluctuations of the spring position against the gear based on
> irregularities and lubricant condition (and balance). To me, at least, it's
> not surprising that there are small random retrograde motions at some times.
> I seriously doubt that Meade has an "algorithm" for this.
>

I tried a tremendous amount of lubrication (Lithium Grease) and it made
no difference. I also adjusted the worm position and found no change.

Like the others, the motion I see is very small. It's only a problem under
the most exacting requirements. Even then, it can be worked around. It's
not a show stopper. But certainly a good place for our collective brain
power to focus and perhaps be productive.

-Robert