Abstract: The present software and hardware system provides monitoring and adaptive operator communication and software for a plurality of machinery units (12) such as machine tools in a shop floor or factory environment. The monitoring system includes a data acquisition processor (16) including a read-only measurement input bank (22), a computer (18) with a general purpose operating system in electronic communication with the data acquisition processor (16), and a plurality of controller-isolated operator terminals (20) operably connected to the computer (18). The input bank (22) is adapted for connection to monitoring sensors (24) or other measuring devices operably positioned or secured to the machinery units (20). The computer (18) and the plurality of controller-isolated operator terminals (20) partially define a local-area network.

Abstract: An adjustable pallet for securing a plurality of elongated workpieces to the work-table of a machine tool. The pallet comprises a rectangular, substantially planar base having three horizontally-disposed plates attached thereto. Each of the three plates has an array of apertures therethrough arranged in a predetermined grid pattern. The grid patterns on the three plates correspond to one another. The middle of the three plates is adjustably slidable with regard to the top and bottom plates, which are fixedly attached to one another. The top and bottom plates are attached to one another with their respective apertures in registry or alignment. The pallet utilizes thumb-nut assemblies to threadedly adjust the displacement of the middle plate with regard to the top and bottom plates. The middle plate is adjustably movable to a position that allows the apertures therein to be in registry or alignment with those of the top and bottom plates.

Abstract: An assembly suitable for preventing and/or effectively dampening the presence of backlash within a worm gear type drive is described. The assembly includes a drive gear adapted to be mounted on a shaft. The drive gear has an annular body with a plurality of teeth extending radially outwardly therefrom. The assembly also includes an offsetable secondary gear mounted to the drive gear. The secondary gear has a complementary annular body with a plurality of teeth extending radially outwardly therefrom. The teeth on the drive gear are equal in number and pitch to the teeth on the secondary gear. The teeth on the drive gear and the secondary gear, together form an array of expandable teeth having a variable thickness. Operatively connected to the drive gear and to the secondary gear is a biasing means for expanding the variable thickness of each expandable tooth.