Abstract: The invention is a modular table-top automation apparatus, or for short, a tac, a word derived from an acronym for a table-top automation center, of which, this is the first. Employing integrated mechanical and electronic systems, a tac is a flexible, programmable apparatus, readily reconfigurable, which can be used as either a stand-alone unit, or as a cell within a configuration of other tacs or machines. The tac can utilize various purchasable application devices, mounted on one or two horizontal carriage rail assemblies, which extend past both sides of a frame containing a central work area, giving it a unique ability to load, position, perform numerous operations and unload a wide variety of small parts or assemblies. By combining with optional rotary magazines positioned on both sides of the frame, the tac can be set-up as a fully automatic “load and walk-away” production center.

Abstract: The invention is a modular table-top automation apparatus, or for short, a tac, a word derived from an acronym for a table-top automation center, of which, this is the first. Employing integrated mechanical and electronic systems, a tac is a flexible, programmable apparatus, readily reconfigurable, which can be used as either a stand-alone unit, or as a cell within a configuration of other tacs or machines. The tac can utilize various purchasable application devices, mounted on one or two horizontal carriage rail assemblies, which extend past both sides of a frame containing a central work area, giving it a unique ability to load, position, perform numerous operations and unload a wide variety of small parts or assemblies. By combining with optional rotary magazines positioned on both sides of the frame, the tac can be set-up as a fully automatic “load and walk-away” production center.

Abstract: A multiple vise system comprising at least two vise heads, each vise head comprising two jaws and a tightening screw and also comprising a supporting structure. The supporting structure is configured to support each vise head and allows the position of the vise heads to be adjusted according to at least two degrees of freedom with respect to each other. Position adjustment is achieved by means of track and slots mechanisms, swivels and telescoping poles. A number of secondary clamps are included to hold specially shaped objects such as printed circuit boards and to hold objects too large to be held by a vise head.

Abstract: A multiple vise system comprising at least two vise heads, each vise head comprising two jaws and a tightening screw and also comprising a supporting structure. The supporting structure is configured to support each vise head and allows the position of the vise heads to be adjusted according to at least two degrees of freedom with respect to each other. Position adjustment is achieved by means of track and slots mechanisms, swivels and telescoping poles. A number of secondary clamps are included to hold specially shaped objects such as printed circuit boards and to hold objects too large to be held by a vise head.

Abstract: A data storage and retrieval system minimizes mechanical complexity and maximizes system flexibility by providing a modular rack mountable system which includes a passive transfer carriage for transferring media elements within the system. An active transfer carriage including a picker which is adapted to engage a notch on the media elements is also provided. The active transfer carriage may transfer media elements to the passive transfer carriage, and may also retrieve them from the passive transfer carriage. Drive actuation is automated with an extendable plunger which is adapted to engage an end of an actuation arm coupled to a media element reader such as a tape drive.