Abstract A video signal playback device derives video signals from a track on a video disc using a light source and an optical path to a lens system which is supported by an air bearing at a predetermined spacing from the surface of the disc. The optical path includes a mirror which is articulated for rotational motion about an axis which shifts the point of impingement of the transmitted light beam upon the disc in the radial direction. The returned beam is directed to a single photosensitive pick-up which, provides input signals to a circuit which generates a ''''fine'''' servo control signal to drive the articulated mirror. The air bearing member includes apparatus providing a bias force that varies with the radial displacement of the transducer assembly relative to the disc center.
In a video disc playback system including a turntable adapted to receive a video disc and a player arm radially movable relative to the disc, the combination comprising: a transducer head, yieldably mounted on the player arm and adapted to be maintained in close proximity to the video disc surface; fluid bearing support means coupled to said transducer head and operable to create a fluid bearing between said head and a rotating video disc; and adjustable bias means for applying a varying force to said head in the direction of the disc to achieve a predetermined spacing between said head and the disc substantially independent of radial position of said head.
Claim 2
Dependent Claim
111 words
In a video disc playback system including a turntable adapted to receive a video disc and a player arm radially movable relative to the disc, the combination comprising: a transducer head, yieldably mounted on the player arm and adapted to be maintained in close proximity to the video disc surface; fluid bearing support means coupled to said transducer head and operable to create a fluid bearing between said head and a rotating video disc; and adjustable bias means for applying a varying force to said head in the direction of the disc to achieve a predetermined spacing between said head and the disc substantially independent of radial position of said head.
Claim 3
Dependent Claim
32 words
Apparatus of claim 1 above wherein said transducer head is mounted to the arm by at least a leaf spring, said leaf spring being insufficient to support the weight of said head.
Claim 4
Dependent Claim
43 words
Apparatus of claim 1 above further including bias control means coupled to the arm and operable in response to player arm radial location for varying the applied force in accordance therewith to compensate for different surface velocities at different radii of the disc.
Claim 5
Dependent Claim
66 words
Apparatus of claim 3 above, wherein said adjustable bias means include a spring coupled To said head and said bias control means include a cam and follower connected to the player arm and coupled to said spring for varying the bias imparted by the spring as a function of follower position on said cam, determined by player arm location relative to the center of the disc.