Axially rotated valve actuation system

The invention described herein is an electrically operated rotary actuator. It is intended primarily for use with the axially rotated VOST valve in applications requiring remote or automatic valve operation, although it may have other applications. The actuator delivers 180 degrees of angular displacement to the rotating member of the VOST valve, as required to open or close the valve. It also effects a small axial displacement to provide seal separation during rotation to minimize seal wear. The actuator is designed to produce low friction and a high torque-to-mass ratio relative to existing actuators. Once operated by an electric signal, the actuator is designed to latch in either the open or closed position without holding current or other externally applied energy.