Abstract
A compact bearing system is capable of variable load carrying capability and precision motion on a guideway. The compact bearing system includes a bearing body, a fluid medium, a sealing member and a pressurizing action means. The bearing body includes an internal pocket with an open side facing a surface of said guideway. The fluid medium is contained inside said internal pocket and is contacted with said surface of said guideway on said open side. The sealing member is contacted with said surface of said guideway and seals a clearance between said bearing body and said surface of said guideway to limit the leakage of said fluid medium. The pressurizing actuation means pressurizes the confined fluid medium through a small passage, and the pressurized fluid medium carrying main portion of the load carried on said compact bearing system.