With Means To Clamp Work During Dwell Patents (Class 83/282)
  • Patent number: 8821052
    Abstract: A cutting device includes a conveyance unit for conveying a recording medium in a conveyance direction, a guide configured to guide a recording medium, a blade movable in a direction intersecting with the conveyance direction, for cutting the recording medium when the blade moves with a leading end side thereof inclined to the upstream side, a presser member movable to a first position where the presser member holds down the recording medium and to a second position where the presser member does not hold down the recording medium, wherein the presser member holds down the recording medium at a position separated farther than a thickness of the recording medium from the guide in the first position, and wherein the presser member holds down the recording medium at least from before the blade starts to cut the recording medium to when the blade is cutting the recording medium.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: September 2, 2014
    Assignee: Canon Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventor: Toshiaki Yamaguchi
  • Patent number: 8807856
    Abstract: A tape cutter including: a cutter for cutting a tape-shaped material; a cutter frame for supporting the cutter in such a condition that the cutter can carry out cutting; a cutter driving mechanism for allowing the cutter to perform cutting from a standby position to a cutting position; a tape pressing member for pressing the tape-shaped material in a cutting direction against a receiving member provided on the cutter frame prior to the cutting by the cutter; a pressing spring disposed between the cutter and the tape pressing member to urge the cutter and the tape pressing member in directions away from each other; and a return spring whose one urging end is hooked to the tape pressing member to return the cutter from the cutting position to the standby position by returning the tape pressing member.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 5, 2012
    Date of Patent: August 19, 2014
    Assignee: Seiko Epson Corporation
    Inventor: Hideo Sodeyama
  • Publication number: 20130305892
    Abstract: Disclosed is an apparatus for cutting a web member along an intersecting direction. The web member has a plurality of fibers including tows along a predetermined direction intersecting the intersecting direction. The apparatus includes a disc-like rotatable blade member for cutting the web member by relatively moving in the intersecting direction with respect to the web member while rotating about a rotation shaft, the rotation shaft extending along the predetermined direction, the rotatable blade member including a cutting edge on an outer circumferential edge portion thereof, a plurality of recess portions being formed on the cutting edge, the plurality of recess portions being arranged along a circumferential direction of the rotatable blade member, a mean value of lengths of the plurality of recess portions in the circumferential direction being smaller than a mean value of diameters of the tows contained in the web member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: UNICHARM CORPORATION
    Inventor: Hisaoki NOBUKUNI
  • Publication number: 20130305891
    Abstract: A web-member cutting apparatus for cutting a web member at intervals in a transport direction includes: an intermittent transport mechanism for intermittently transporting the web member in the transport direction; a disc-like rotatable blade member for cutting the web member by moving along an intersecting direction while rotating about a rotation shaft during a suspension period of transport of the web member, and a downstream pressing member for regulating movement of the web member by pressing the web member against the intermittent transport mechanism at a position downstream from a target cut position in the transport direction throughout a period during which the rotatable blade member is cutting the web member.
    Type: Application
    Filed: January 31, 2013
    Publication date: November 21, 2013
    Applicant: Unicharm Corporation
    Inventor: Hisaoki NOBUKUNI
  • Publication number: 20130087030
    Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing a selectable amount of material from an amount of stored material. The dispenser includes a housing having a material track and material storage area, a material-advancement mechanism disposed within said housing, a material-cutting, mechanism, and an actuator. The actuator has a first end being operatively engaged with said first mechanism and an opposing second opposing end being operatively engaged with said second mechanism. The actuator is spring-biased to a non-compressed position via at least first and second springs and is also selectably shiftable to a selectable, material-advancement position and a selectable, material-cutting position.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 5, 2011
    Publication date: April 11, 2013
    Inventor: Jeffrey M. Jones
  • Publication number: 20110026999
    Abstract: To achieve a high swinging property of a fixed blade, enable to reliably cut a recording sheet from both right and left sides thereof without leaving an uncut portion, etc.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 28, 2010
    Publication date: February 3, 2011
    Inventor: Hiroyuki Kohira
  • Patent number: 7802504
    Abstract: A web transport system operates cyclically to advance a web and provide a synchronization signal at a known point in a cutting cycle. A drive system oscillates a cutting knife from a resting position to an active position and back in response to an actuating signal. A sensor in the path of the cutting knife provides a position signal when the cutting knife is at a predetermined position that is substantially different than the resting position. A controller receives the synchronization signal, provides the actuating signal at a time relative to the synchronization signal, receives the position signal, and adjusts subsequent actuating signals in response to the position signal so that the cutting knife arrives at the predetermined position substantially at a predetermined point in the cutting cycle.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 21, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Smart Bottle Inc.
    Inventor: Kenneth R. Wilkes
  • Patent number: 7805106
    Abstract: A sheet cutting apparatus including: an information obtaining device, which obtains information on the thickness of a sheet bundle to be cut; a sheet presser movable between a standby position for receiving the sheet bundle at a predetermined position and a pressing position for pressing the sheet bundle at the predetermined position to fix the sheet bundle; a cutting knife, which cuts the sheet bundle fixed by the sheet presser; and a control device, which moves the sheet presser to another standby position between the standby position and the pressing position before the sheet bundle is conveyed to the predetermined position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 28, 2010
    Assignee: Canon Finetech, Inc.
    Inventor: Toshiki Kikuchi
  • Patent number: 7685916
    Abstract: A clamping mechanism for a food slicing machine having a product holder that is driven cyclically through a food slicing blade along an arcuate or linear path. The clamping mechanism is driven by the drive means that drives the product holder, thereby assuring the timing of the clamping during the cutting portion of the stroke. A drive rod extends from the drive means, which can be a driveshaft, and extends to a plate that is pivotably mounted to the product holder. The plate pushes plungers through the sidewall of the holder to seat against and clamp the food product against the sidewall of the holder.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 2006
    Date of Patent: March 30, 2010
    Assignee: J. E. Grote Company, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas P. Mathues, William J. Locascio
  • Publication number: 20090266211
    Abstract: A method for automatically cutting a workpiece comprising the steps of moving a workpiece along its longitudinal axis, positioning a cutting blade by rotating the blade about a vertical axis, positioning the cutting blade by rotating about a bevel axis, and vertically moving the blade into cutting contact with the workpiece, thereby stab cutting the workpiece and creating a bevel cut. The method may also comprises moving the blade along a transverse axis. Further steps may include moving the cutting blade along a transverse axis simultaneous to moving the workpiece along it longitudinal axis, thereby creating a scarf cut.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 20, 2008
    Publication date: October 29, 2009
    Inventors: Brian Westfall, Brent McMillan, Richard Zeinert, Andrew Lashley, David L. McAdoo
  • Patent number: 7146892
    Abstract: A cutting installation for a fabric web comprising an unwinding unit, a downstream dancer unit serving as a buffer, and a downstream cutting frame with a cutting unit disposed thereon. At least two gripper beams extending parallel to the cutting unit and guided along a lateral rail arrangement are displaceable across the longitudinal extension of the cutting frame, and each gripper beam on one side is carried by a first support tower which is displaceable along the rails, and on its opposite end is provided with a telescopically extendable extension piece. The extension piece can be docked with a second support tower arranged on the opposite side and traveling along. The support towers are adapted for adjusting the height of the respectively carried gripper beam, such that each gripper beam, as it moves along the cutting frame, can travel over the other gripper beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 16, 2004
    Date of Patent: December 12, 2006
    Assignee: Parker Hannifin GmbH
    Inventors: Roland Kienzle, Franz Hagle, Olaf Zeiss
  • Patent number: 6912940
    Abstract: A clamp is provided that is capable of restraining an item during cutting and rotating the item between cutting a first end of the item and cutting a second end of the item. The clamp includes an upper jaw, a lower jaw, and a backplate that pivotally connects the lower jaw and the upper jaw. The clamp includes a latch that restrains the lower and upper jaws against movement relative to one another. Also provided is an apparatus for cutting an item. The apparatus includes a table and the clamp described above. Optionally, the apparatus can also include a cutter for cutting the item.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 19, 2000
    Date of Patent: July 5, 2005
    Assignee: Universal Presentation Concepts, Inc.
    Inventor: Alan C. Atwood
  • Patent number: 6792840
    Abstract: A plunger assembly is provided for gripping blanking material or blanking scrap during a blanking operation. The plunger assembly includes a base member; a pivoting gripper or plunger member, and a pair of connecting legs connecting the pivoting gripper member to the base member. The assembly is adapted to pivot with respect to at least one of the base member and the pivoting gripper member through a predetermined pivot angle range for changing a distance between the base member and the pivoting gripper member. By pivoting, a folding and unfolding of the plunger assembly can be effected during a blanking operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 25, 2002
    Date of Patent: September 21, 2004
    Assignee: Atlas Die LLC
    Inventors: Rick D. Myers, David J. Coursey
  • Patent number: 6766720
    Abstract: A system configured for forming precision cuts in an elongate object comprising a base member and a movable member carried by the base member and movable toward and away from the elongate member, and a cutting blade carried by the movable member; and a clamping device coupled to the base member, and configured to engage the elongate object while the cutting blade makes an incision therein; and a contact detection system configured for detecting contact between the cutting blade and the elongate object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 22, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 27, 2004
    Assignee: Sarcos LC
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Clark C. Davis
  • Patent number: 6755105
    Abstract: A method of an apparatus for cutting segments (10) to desired lengths from a strip (1) of elastomeric tire components having at least one cord reinforced component involves the step of impacting one cord (22) as the cut is being made and lifting the cord (22) to avoid cutting cords (22) while directing the cutting path along the lifted cord(22). The article resulting from the method has a plurality of cords (22) adjacent a flat cut splicing surface (8) suitable for lap splicing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 29, 2004
    Assignee: The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company
    Inventor: Daniel Ray Downing
  • Patent number: 6742426
    Abstract: A method for cutting an elastomer cable into ultra-precise, defect-free segments of consistent length, and an apparatus to perform the same. The invented apparatus comprises cable advancement, cable clamping and cable shearing systems. The cable advancement system comprises rollers with a groove substantially matching the diameter of the cable. The cable clamping system comprises a pair of dies with a preferably conical feed hole and a clamping hole substantially matching the diameter of the cable. The cable shearing system comprises a preferably extra keen coated cryo treated movable razor blade that is held at an adjustable angle against the face of the clamping dies and slides in a linear path at a low sawing angle. In one embodiment, a second razor blade for nicking the cable prior to shearing—on substantially the opposite side of the cable from where shearing begins—is used to prevent tears in cable slices. The invented apparatus can be manually operated, or it can be motorized.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 1, 2001
    Date of Patent: June 1, 2004
    Assignee: High Connection Density, Inc.
    Inventors: Douglas E. Cote, Che-yu Li
  • Patent number: 6701817
    Abstract: An automatic iron core air gap cutting apparatus includes an electronic control box and a transmission system to receive signals and control from the electronic control box for receiving finished iron cores to perform air gaps cutting operations. The completed iron cores with the air gaps formed thereon are pushed to an exit chute for packaging, thereby completing the automatic iron core fabrication process.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Date of Patent: March 9, 2004
    Inventor: Albert Cho
  • Publication number: 20030121392
    Abstract: An automatic iron core air gap cutting apparatus includes an electronic control box and a transmission system to receive signals and control from the electronic control box for receiving finished iron cores to perform air gaps cutting operations. The completed iron cores with the air gaps formed thereon are pushed to an exit chute for packaging and proceeding the follow on processes, thereby to form an automatic iron core fabrication processing.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 28, 2001
    Publication date: July 3, 2003
    Inventor: Albert Cho
  • Patent number: 6553880
    Abstract: A micro-machining system configured for cutting an elongate object, including a clamp configured to enable repeatedly releasing and then holding the elongate object in a position suitable for cutting the elongate object transversely relative to its lengthwise axis, and a manipulating means, which can include a pinch roller feed configured to advance the elongate element and to rotate it about a lengthwise axis of the elongate object, thereby moving the elongate object so that it can be disposed in the position suitable for cutting, and a cutter configured for forming the at least one precision cut in the elongate object to a desired depth, under the control of a controller.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Date of Patent: April 29, 2003
    Assignee: Sarcos, LC
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Clark Davis
  • Patent number: 6523444
    Abstract: In a method for cutting at least one workpiece section (1), in particular aluminum section, which may have been produced in an extrusion press, using a sawing device (19) which, on a frame (5), is displaced along an X-axis above a conveyor device (2) for workpiece sections (1), a saw (13) is displaced with respect to the sawing device (19, 25) in an X-direction and/or Y-direction above the conveyor device (2) for workpiece sections (1), in order to cut at least one workpiece section (1), at least one saw bench (15) is moved into a conveyor plane (20) of the conveyor device (2) for workpiece sections (1), the at least one workpiece section (1) then being moved in via the at least one saw bench (15) and then being cut through.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Date of Patent: February 25, 2003
    Inventor: Christoph Keller
  • Publication number: 20030000358
    Abstract: A adjustable shuttle stop apparatus for use in controlling feeding of material to a machining operation on a machine tool, such as a band saw. The apparatus comprises a feed conveyor, a band saw adjacent to the feed conveyor, a shuttle vise movably disposed on the feed conveyor, and an adjustable stop on the feed conveyor for adjusting a distance between the stop and the shuttle vise and for stopping the shuttle vise at the cutting position. The adjustable stop compensates for undesired movement of the shuttle vise caused by clamping the workpiece such that the distance between the stop and the shuttle vise remains substantially constant. This allows for a consistent cut length of the workpiece on subsequent cutting cycles. Different embodiments of the adjustable stop are disclosed along with a method of use of the apparatus.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 21, 2001
    Publication date: January 2, 2003
    Inventors: Gerald R. Harris, Timothy M. Neall
  • Publication number: 20020152859
    Abstract: A method to remove pieces (14) cut off from bar-shaped workpiece material (5) by a cutting machine (1) is provided as well as an apparatus to carry out this process, wherein the piece (14) of the material (5) to be cut lies on a machine table (7) during cutting behind the cutting plane (8) in the direction of feed (9) of the material (5), is gripped between gripping jaws (12, 13) from behind the cutting plane (8) only. At the end of the cut, the cut off piece (14) is moved away from the cutting plane (8) by the gripping jaws (12, 13) in the material feed direction (9) and is tilted about an axis perpendicular to the material feed direction (9) such that its most recently cut surface is essentially horizontal and directed downward and that the piece (14) is then discharged by the gripping jaws (12, 13) by means of an essentially vertical motion downward onto an offload table (21).
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 22, 2002
    Publication date: October 24, 2002
    Applicant: KEURO Besitz GmbH & Co. EDV-Dienstleistungs KG
    Inventor: Armin Stolzer
  • Publication number: 20020124703
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automated in-line drop cut apparatus comprising a drop cut unit and a pathway for receiving folded documents from an upstream feeder and transporting said documents to and from the drop cut unit. The drop cut unit includes at least one cutter for cutting the folded documents along a document folded edge parallel to the direction of document travel, said cutter being positioned adjacent said pathway. A method of producing nested drop cut documents in-line is also provided by this invention.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 6, 2002
    Publication date: September 12, 2002
    Inventor: Kenneth A. Stevens
  • Patent number: 6431039
    Abstract: A method of forming cuts in elongate objects such as a catheters and guide wires, using a cutting device which includes a movable cutting means, a clamping means for holding the elongate object while the cutting means makes an incision therein, and a manipulating means including a pinch roller assembly including a first roller and a second roller, and configured for advancing the elongated object to the clamping means and rotating the elongate object, the method comprising the steps of: a) providing a length of the elongate object to the manipulating means; b) advancing the elongate object toward the clamping means by rotation of a roller of the pinch roller assembly; c) rotating the pinch roller assembly so as to rotate the elongate object about a lengthwise axis of the elongate object; d) engaging the clamping means around the elongate object; e) cutting the elongate object; f) advancing the cutting means toward the elongate object until a desired cutting depth has been reached; and, g) retracting the cutti
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 1, 1999
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2002
    Assignee: Sarcos LC
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Clark Davis
  • Publication number: 20020078808
    Abstract: A micromaching system configured for cutting an elongate object, comprising a clamp configured to enable repeatedly releasing and then holding the elongate object in a position suitable for cutting the elongate object transversely relative to the lengthwise axis and a pinch roller feed configured to advance the elongate element and to rotate it about a lenghwise axis of the elongate object, thereby moving the elongate object so that it can be disposed in the position suitable for cutting, and a cutter configured for forming the at least one precision cut in the elongate object to a desired depth.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 17, 2001
    Publication date: June 27, 2002
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Clark Davis
  • Publication number: 20020007709
    Abstract: In a method for cutting at least one workpiece section (1), in particular aluminum section, which may have been produced in an extrusion press, using a sawing device (19) which, on a frame (5), is displaced along an X-axis above a conveyor device (2) for workpiece sections (1), a saw (13) is displaced with respect to the sawing device (19, 25) in an X-direction and/or Y-direction above the conveyor device (2) for workpiece sections (1), in order to cut at least one workpiece section (1), at least one saw bench (15) is moved into a conveyor plane (20) of the conveyor device (2) for workpiece sections (1), the at least one workpiece section (1) then being moved in via the at least one saw bench (15) and then being cut through.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 26, 2001
    Publication date: January 24, 2002
    Inventor: Christoph Keller
  • Patent number: 6308602
    Abstract: An apparatus and method for cutting pattern pieces from a continuous marker are disclosed. According to the invention, pattern pieces comprising made to order garments are cut from successive bites of limp sheet material. Means are provided for creating the continuous marker, labeling the pattern pieces and cutting the pattern pieces for subsequent processing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 8, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 30, 2001
    Assignee: Gerber Scientific, Inc.
    Inventor: Heinz Joseph Gerber
  • Patent number: 6260458
    Abstract: A system and method for making at least one cut in a catheter, guide wire or other elongate cylindrical object having a lengthwise axis, comprising a securing means for repeatedly releasing and then holding the elongate object in a position suitable for cutting it at an angle or transversely relative to its lengthwise axis, a manipulating means for moving the elongate object so that it can be disposed in the position suitable for cutting when it is released by the securing means, and a cutting means for forming the at least one precision cut in the elongate object to any desired depth. The securing means preferably comprises a rotatable collet clamp, and the manipulating means preferably comprises a pinch roller assembly for advancing and holding the elongate object.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 3, 1999
    Date of Patent: July 17, 2001
    Assignee: Sarcos L.C.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Clark Davis
  • Patent number: 6135164
    Abstract: An apparatus for preparing and positioning U-shaped loops of wires on a conveyor of a harness making machine comprises transfer grippers moveable in a vertical direction V. The transfer grippers are for transferring the wire loops from the selector and cutting station into the jaws of conveyor grippers. Provision of the transfer grippers enables initial feeding and cutting of the wire loops during movement of the conveyor grippers thereby decreasing cycle time.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 15, 1998
    Date of Patent: October 24, 2000
    Assignee: Komax Holding AG
    Inventors: Jean-Paul Celoudoux, Bruno Daugy
  • Patent number: 6116126
    Abstract: A method for use in making profile pieces. The method has the steps of feeding a profile into a work station, clamping the profile in the work station, and cutting it into a profile piece and a profile remainder. The profile piece is repositioned in the work station for further work by operably connecting it to the profile remainder while both the profile piece and the profile remainder are clamped, and moving the profile remainder. The invention also covers a machine for carrying out the method.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 10, 1996
    Date of Patent: September 12, 2000
    Inventors: Marc Van Den Bulcke, Hartmut Federhenn
  • Patent number: 6062552
    Abstract: A cutter clamp assembly for holding the elongated strip of tire material during the cutting process, whereby predetermined lengths of tire material are created to be formed into a tire. The cutter clamp is an air actuated clamp that is pivoted into engagement with a sidewall section of the elongated strip of tire material as air suction from an air manifold holds the entire elongated strip down so as to assure a uniform and even cut. The cutter clamp includes a clamp bar that is spring loaded by a tension bar such that during engagement the clamp bar evenly distributes a force along the entire sidewall adjacent to the cutter such that an even cut is started upon contact by the cutter with the elongated strip of tire material, whereby the air suction manifold holds down the entire elongated strip during cutting.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 7, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 16, 2000
    Assignee: Bridgestone/Firestone, Inc.
    Inventors: Richard R. Sykes, Michael L. Wood
  • Patent number: 6041684
    Abstract: In an apparatus for the separating of curved sausages (2) from a sausages string (3) by means of a cutting device at a cutting place (31), the sausages string (3) is fed in an arc to the cutting place (31). In this connection, the arc is defined by at least one guide belt (8, 9) which rests at least partially against the sausage (2) or the sausages string (3).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 6, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: Stimpfl + Gieseler GmbH
    Inventor: Christof Stimpfl
  • Patent number: 6042864
    Abstract: A machine and method for cutting plugs in the tops of baked products which serve as bread bowls when the plugs are removed. The products are conveyed in successive rows to a cutting station where they are stopped and centered beneath a row of cutters by a centering gate and clamped in place by a clamping gate. The cutters are rotated and lowered in unison to cut cylindrical plugs which remain in place on the bakery products for handling and packaging.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 19, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 28, 2000
    Assignee: United Bakery Equipment Co.
    Inventors: Paul M. Bastasch, Todd M. Edmunds, Randyl C. Hanson, Scott Lickteig, Eric Scheier
  • Patent number: 6033354
    Abstract: A separator for cutting a cushioning/packing material generally in the form of a continuous web made from a base stock of stacked paper sheets, crushed so as to form a cushioning web which moves along a conveyance axis (A) orthogonal to the separator, is characterised in that it includes means for pulling off the portion downstream from said separator, which means operate by a tearing off action exerted at right angles from the conveyance axis (A) and further have means (2, 2', 3, 3') for securely holding the web material in a stationary position at least in the pulling off region, while the tearing means (4) act upon the web material to separate the portion downstream from said separator.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 27, 1998
    Date of Patent: March 7, 2000
    Assignee: Naturembal (S.A.)
    Inventor: Theodore Baumuller
  • Patent number: 6021698
    Abstract: A stager interface apparatus and method for staging two-up printed material are disclosed. The stager interface apparatus and method, in the form of a cutter stager, by independently holding each piece of printed material, allow side-by-side printed material to be released downstream either simultaneously or sequentially dependent upon downstream requirements.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 30, 1998
    Date of Patent: February 8, 2000
    Assignee: Bell & Howell Mail & Messaging Technologies Co.
    Inventors: Edward M. Otto, David M. Skvoretz
  • Patent number: 6014919
    Abstract: A catheter, guidewire or other cylindrical object cutting device which includes a base, at least one circular saw blade mounted on a spindle member, and a clamp for manipulating the object to be cut. The at least one circular saw blade is rotatably mounted on the spindle member. The spindle member is free to move vertically and horizontally with respect to the base to thereby control the location, size and depth of the cuts in a cylindrical object disposed adjacent thereto. The clamp is able to hold the object to be cut, as well as rotate it to expose the entire circumference of the object to the saw blade. By releasing the clamp, a pinch roller can advance the object before the clamp is re-engaged to securely hold the object for cutting. Sensors are also provided to enable detection of wear of the saw blade so as to signal needed replacement or adjustment of the saw blade to compensate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 16, 1996
    Date of Patent: January 18, 2000
    Assignee: Precision Vascular Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Stephen C. Jacobsen, Clark Davis
  • Patent number: 6006438
    Abstract: The present invention relates to an automated feed assembly for use with a pack seal tester. The automated feed assembly receives a plurality of cigarette packs into a testing column for advancement control of the packs to the tester. The automated feed assembly adjusts the flow of cigarette packs within the testing column through the use of a first, second and third push and hold mechanism which work in conjunction with a first and a second stop mechanism, all of which work in conjunction with each other to orderly advance the packs to a plunger and vacuum source for testing the seal strength of the cigarette pack seal.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 23, 1998
    Date of Patent: December 28, 1999
    Assignee: Brown & Williamson Tobacco Corporation
    Inventor: Van E. Shrider
  • Patent number: 5953974
    Abstract: An apparatus for cutting slots in corrugated and twin-wall pipes that have annular elevations alternating with annular impressions, comprises a machine frame with a pipe duct and a lifting carriage for moving a pipe through the pipe duct. Two groups of holding and centering levers are provided which are engageable with a pipe for straightening and retaining the latter axially and radially. Further, saws are provided which are disposed between two groups of holding and centering levers on the machine frame and which are movable to reciprocate lineally and radially in relation to the axis of the pipe duct.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 19, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 21, 1999
    Assignee: Wilhelm Hegler
    Inventors: Ralph-Peter Hegler, Wilhelm Hegler
  • Patent number: 5930975
    Abstract: Bottom wrap/three-quarter wrap apparatus having an automatic web feeder for safely advancing a web fed from a supply roll to a main web feeder. The main feed rollers advance one length of the web and a cutter cuts the advanced length, completing one cycle of operation, after which the bottom wrap/three-quarter wrap apparatus is placed under control of a bundle feeder. The main feed roller pair are displaced from one another when the web passes between creasing rollers. When a predetermined length of web has been advanced to the creasing rollers a cutter cylinder moves a blade mounting plate in the cutting direction. A resilient clamping assembly arranged on the mounting plate momentarily clamps the web between the mounting plate and a web guide just prior to severing of the web by the blade, maintaining the web taut during cutting. The cutting blade is rapidly moved back to a position displaced from the web in preparation for a subsequent cutting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 13, 1997
    Date of Patent: August 3, 1999
    Assignee: Quipp Systems, Inc.
    Inventors: Medardo Espinosa, Christer A. Sjogren
  • Patent number: 5845553
    Abstract: The invention is a stator lamination jig system which comprises a centrally located spindle and a support for a stator lamination having a plurality of holes therein. The support is rotatively-mounted on the spindle for driving the lamination during a notching operation. A plate is included to secure the lamination on the support and a non-rotatable ejector is located below the support which has a lowered position and a raised position. An ejection cylinder is seated upon the ejector which is shaped and positioned to extend through holes in the support. The invention also comprises a cylinder connected to the ejector for driving the ejector. When the cylinder is actuated upwards, the ejector is in a raised position which urges the ejection cylinder through the holes in the support to cause the lamination to be released from the jig.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1996
    Date of Patent: December 8, 1998
    Assignee: Dayton-Phoenix Group, Inc.
    Inventors: Gale A. Kooken, John W. Murphy, Roger D. Fleming
  • Patent number: 5823083
    Abstract: A gripping apparatus for reel material includes a reel support, a first clamping device and a second clamping device as well as a cutting device arranged between the clamping devices. The first clamping device is spring-mounted along two non-parallel axes so that the paper web can be evenly clamped and cut transversely to the web direction without twisting and formation of undulations.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 15, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 20, 1998
    Assignee: Durst Phototechnik AG
    Inventors: Franz Obertegger, Mario Gandini, Anton Profanter
  • Patent number: 5819621
    Abstract: An electric cable guiding device includes a fixed guide block and a movable guide block. A projected round surface is formed in the fixed guide block, and an indented round surface is formed in the movable guide block. In addition, a groove is formed in the indented round surface. At the time of guiding an electric cable, the movable guide block is fitted in the fixed guide block. In this state, the indented round surface and the groove constitute an electric cable guide path. The electric cable is fed into the electric cable guide path by rollers. Consequently, the electric cable is guided in a U shape along the electric cable guide path. The front end of the electric cable drawn out of the electric cable guide path is clamped. Thereafter, the movable guide block is moved to an electric cable measuring position that is spaced apart from the fixed guide block by a predetermined distance. In this state, the electric cable is fed by a required length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 28, 1997
    Date of Patent: October 13, 1998
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshinobu Ohta, Nobuyuki Itaya
  • Patent number: 5755147
    Abstract: A circular saw with a spreading mechanism employing hydraulic cylinders for opening and closing a main vise about a workpiece to be crosscut by a saw blade, and a carrier vise for spreading and for advancing the workpiece for crosscutting, the tightening and loosening of the main vise about the workpiece, and the spreading by the carrier vise is controlled by a hydraulic sequencing circuit resulting in lower manufacturing cost of the saw.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: June 11, 1997
    Date of Patent: May 26, 1998
    Assignee: Tsune Seiki Co., Ltd.
    Inventor: Ryoichi Tsune
  • Patent number: 5690010
    Abstract: A shear die is axially divided into a pair of die portions 18,19 between which a holding cavity 22 is formed, wherein the holding cavity has a diameter that is less than that of material "a" so that when one of the die portions is forced against the other die portion under a biasing effect of a spring 25, the material will be firmly held in the die cavity ensuring that the material can be cut to a predetermined volume and present a smooth cut surface, and the cutter arbor 4 is provided with a releasing member 34 adapted to release the one die portion 19 from the effect of the spring 25 as the cutter arbor 4 is retracted to facilitate additional material being moved into the die cavity for a subsequent cutting operation.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 1, 1995
    Date of Patent: November 25, 1997
    Assignee: Asahi Sumac Kabushiki Kaisha
    Inventors: Masahiko Amari, Michio Hayashi
  • Patent number: 5634385
    Abstract: An electric cable guiding device includes a fixed guide block and a movable guide block. A projected round surface is formed in the fixed guide block, and an indented round surface is formed in the movable guide block. In addition, a groove is formed in the indented round surface. At the time of guiding an electric cable, the movable guide block is fitted in the fixed guide block. In this state, the indented round surface and the groove constitute an electric cable guide path. The electric cable is fed into the electric cable guide path by rollers. Consequently, the electric cable is guided in a U shape along the electric cable guide path. The front end of the electric cable drawn out of the electric cable guide path is clamped. Thereafter, the movable guide block is moved to an electric cable measuring position that is spaced apart from the fixed guide block by a predetermined distance. In this state, the electric cable is fed by a required length.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 14, 1994
    Date of Patent: June 3, 1997
    Assignee: Sumitomo Wiring Systems, Ltd.
    Inventors: Yoshinobu Ohta, Nobuyuki Itaya
  • Patent number: 5598757
    Abstract: A tab (22) at the edge of a panel (10) may be advantageously sheared by transporting the panel into an in-line shear (30). As the panel is transported into the shear, an adjustable rail (52) engages the tab (22) to guide the panel to maintain its orientation. The rail (52) is adjusted after the tab (22) has been sheared to now engage the panel (10) along its edge formed by the removal of the tab. In this way, the rail (52) can guide the panel upon transport from the shear.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 2, 1995
    Date of Patent: February 4, 1997
    Assignee: Lucent Technologies Inc.
    Inventors: James L. Lloyd, Edward M. Olbrick, Ivan Pawlenko, Russell E. Schuss, Girard Sidone
  • Patent number: 5558744
    Abstract: An apparatus (10) applies adhesive tape to workpieces. A nest plate (52) receives a workpiece (20). A clamp plate (53) holds the workpiece (20) relative to said nest plate (52). A stage (73) holds a leading portion of a continuous tape (12). A first mover (58) moves the nest plate (52) and the workpiece (20) relative to the stage (73) and the tape (12) to engage the workpiece (20) with the leading portion of the tape (12) and affix the leading portion of the tape (12) to the workpiece (20). A second mover (45) moves said nest plate (52), the workpiece (20) and the affixed portion of the tape (12) relative to the stage (73). A sever mechanism (62) severs the affixed portion of the tape from a remaining portion of the tape (12). The clamp plate (52) releases the workpiece (20). A third mover (87) moves the workpiece (20) and the affixed portion of the tape (12) relative to said nest plate (52) to remove the workpiece (20) from said nest plate (52).
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 8, 1994
    Date of Patent: September 24, 1996
    Assignee: Herd Manufacturing, Inc.
    Inventors: Reinhold Rock, Josef Schuessler
  • Patent number: 5497685
    Abstract: An arrangement for cutting stacked sheets of material resting on a bench. A hydraulically actuated holdfast beam descends onto the material to be cut, and the cutter travels perpendicular to the surface of the bench adjacent to the holdfast beam. A sensor operates during the cutting in conjunction with a circuit that controls the holdfast beam, and emits a signal to reduce the beam's holdfast force. The sensor is mounted below the holdfast beam and outside its effective surface that comes into contact with the material being cut. The distance between the sensor and the effective surface of the holdfast beam equals the distance between a lower edge of the holdfast beam and an upper edge of the stacked material that is being cut.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Inventor: Wolfgang Mohr
  • Patent number: 5497686
    Abstract: An arrangement for optimizing the unproductive motions of a holdfast-beam in a machine that cuts sheets of material that are stacked on a bench. A hydraulic beam descends onto the stack of sheets to hold them fast before they are cut, and rises again after the sheets have been cut. A definite distance between the holdfast-beam and the material that has been cut is determined while the beam rises off the sheets of material. The rise of the holdfast-beam is terminated when a definite distance is determined.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: March 12, 1996
    Inventor: Wolfgang Mohr
  • Patent number: 5488886
    Abstract: A method for optimizing the cutting of sheets of material that are stacked on a bench in a cutting machine. Before cutting the sheets, a beam descends to hold the sheets fast while guillotine blade descends and cuts the sheets. After the sheets have been cut, the blade and beam are lifted, with the lower edge of the beam following the sharp edge of the blade. A definite distance between the blade and the top of the stack is determined while the blade rises after cutting the sheets. The rise of the blade is terminated at the upper end of that distance, which is determined by a pick-up mounted stationary on the holdfast beam. This pick-up detects the position of the rising blade in relation to the holdfast beam.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 27, 1993
    Date of Patent: February 6, 1996
    Inventor: Wolfgang Mohr