Abstract: An apparatus for use on a machine tool having a table movable along a rail disposed in a way. The apparatus includes a way cover and a rail engaging coupling. The way cover includes a top and first and second opposing way side walls extending generally downwardly. The rail engaging coupling includes bearing means and a housing portion housing the bearing means. First and second legs extend from opposite sides of the housing portion and are attached to the table top of the table at distal ends. The legs extend from the housing portion under the way cover side walls to movably connect the table top with the rail.

Abstract: A mechanism and method for cutting multiple sheets of fabric by a laser beam and removing the smoke and debris from the fabric. The multiple layers of fabric are disposed upon a honeycomb structure that is secured to a vacuum table connected to a vacuum source where the structure includes a plurality of vertically extended openings through which a laser beam is aimed and focused to cut a pattern in the multiple layers of fabric exclusing any impermeable sheets that cover the fabric above and below the fabric. By eliminating the impermeable sheets, the movement of the airstream is directed to flow towards the laser beam and take with it, the smoke and debris from the multiple layers of fabric. When the airstream is directed generally through the opening in the fabric, it assumes a path that moves substantially parallel to the laser beam.

Abstract: A thread looping machine having a frame mechanism with a longitudinal guideway over which a carriage slidably moves and supports a dependent member for holding a vise to secure the work so that a bail mechanism receives thread under tension that has been coated with an adhesive substance, and a drive mechanism rotates the bail mechanism to form successive loops around the work being held in the vise to secure the same.