Abstract: An actuator (22) for a vibratory finishing machine or the like includes a housing (24) with a rotatable quill shaft (44) of comparatively low bending stiffness extending therethrough. Mounted on each end of the quill shaft (44) is a journal (46) which defines a hydrodynamic bearing with an adjacent corresponding internal surface of the housing (24). The quill shaft (44) is axially constrained within the housing (24) by an inward thrust bearing (68) and an outward retainer (56), dynamic seal (64), static seal (62) and spring (66) located on opposite sides of each journal (46).

Abstract: A vibratory actuator (22) includes a housing (62), a rotatable shaft, (78) extending through the housing, and an eccentric member (80) to which the shaft is secured. Vibration is effected upon rotation of the eccentric member (80) by the shaft (78). A hydrodynamic fluid film gap is provided between a partial cylindrical journal surface of the eccentric member (80) and a full cylindrical bearing surface of the housing (62), and the housing contains hydrodynamic fluid. Radial loading between the housing (62), shaft (78) and eccentric member (80) is more uniformly distributed to reduce structural deflections and thus facilitate maintenance of the proper film of hydrodynamic fluid during operation of the actuator (22). If desired, the fluid can be circulated through the housing (62) for cooling purposes.

Abstract: A composition having improved wear resistant and compression resilient properties is provided comprising an elastomeric substrate having a working surface and a non-working surface, and a plurality of abrasive resistant members randomly positioned within the substrate. The abrasive resistant members are positioned within the elastomeric substrate so that at least certain of the abrasive resistant members are closely adjacent the working surface of the elastomeric substrate. A layer of elastomeric material may be utilized between the abrasive resistant members and the non-working surface of the substrate to provide a cushioning effect.

Abstract: An unloading ramp assembly for a vibratory finishing machine of the type having a toroidal bowl or hopper includes an input platform extending to a media separation assembly which in turn extends to an output platform leading out of the vibratory finishing machine. A rod extends across and above the hopper adjacent to the input platform, and a ramp is pivotally engagable with the rod and is adapted to extend downwardly therefrom into engagement with the bottom of the hopper. The insertion sequence for the ramp is initiated by engaging the upper end of the ramp with the rod across the entire width thereof and then engaging the lower end of the ramp with the moving media and piece parts in the hopper, whereby the lower end of the ramp is pivoted downwardly into engagement with the bottom of the hopper. The withdrawal sequence for the ramp is initiated by pivoting one side of the ramp out of engagement with the rod, whereby the moving media in the hopper pivots the ramp out of the hopper.

Abstract: In a material transfer system, a substantially airtight hopper is rotatably supported at the top of an upright column which is in turn supported by a base. The hopper may be divided into a plurality of compartment sections, and inlet and outlet ports are provided for each hopper compartment. A vacuum pump is connected to the interior of the hopper through the column. A hose is adapted for connection to one of the inlet ports to direct material into the hopper, and sealing apparatus is provided for closing the remainder of the inlet ports. Each discharge port is provided with a chute for receiving and transferring material under the action of gravity. Drain apparatus is provided for receiving liquid from each discharge port. Each discharge port is further provided with structure for sealing the discharge port in response to the presence of vacuum within the hopper.

Abstract: A vibratory mechanism includes apparatus adapted for vibratory actuation to perform a predetermined function. A tubular housing is connected to the apparatus at spaced points, and a pair of hydrodynamic bearings are mounted in the housing at points located outwardly from the points of connection of the housing to the apparatus. A shaft is rotatably supported in the hydrodynamic bearings, and structure is provided for continuously directing oil to the hydrodynamic bearings and to thrust bearings which position the shaft axially. Oil from the bearings is directed to drain structure comprising part of the tubular housing. Eccentric weights are mounted on the shaft for rotation therewith and are positioned at points located outwardly from the hydrodynamic bearings.