Abstract: A track and carriage system is provided for moving a work piece along a flexible track (10). The system includes a track (10) having at least one track segment (12), the track segment (12) including a rack assembly (16) formed by a plurality of spaced rack members (18) mounted on the track segment (12). A carriage assembly (40) is configured to move along the track (10). The carriage assembly (40) includes a first carriage (42) and a second carriage (44) which may be removably mounted on the track (10). A link assembly (48) extends between the two carriages (42, 44) to connect the two carriages as they Cove along the track (10).

Abstract: A unified modular system of drives and controls for a mobile robotic application includes a first control module that covers a full range of commonly used speeds and motions. Second and subsequent drive modules can be chained to the first drive module for more complex motion control. Control modules for different functions can be interchangeably plugged into the first drive module to control lt he first drive module and the second and subsequent drive modules to enable the motor complex motions. The drive modules and control modules include a common bus that enables addition of new functions to create new machines for different applications.

Abstract: A carriage is disclosed for holding and guiding a tool along a specified path on a workpiece at a controlled, substantially constant speed. The carriage has at least one drive roller disposed on a bed with drive means for rotating the drive roller. A pair of idler rollers are attached to the bed in opposed relation to the drive roller. A pair of transverse rollers are mounted on the bed and are adapted to ride along an upper edge of a flange disposed on the workpiece.

Abstract: An elongate deformable ribbon drive rail for carrying a working apparatus having a toothed drive gear and support mechanism is provided in the form of a first narrow elongate strip of metal of width to carry the support mechanism, a second narrower strip of metal having a regular series of corrugations extending lengthwise thereof fixed to the first strip intermediate its edges at each valley of the second strip and adapted to be engaged by the toothed drive gear while the edges of the first strip engage the support mechanism.

Abstract: A radius attachment is provided for use with a conventional welding or cutting torch carriage incorporating a segment of the guide rail carrying a drive means and balancing means, the drive means being driven by the drive of the torch carriage and a connection from the guide rail segment to a pivot point adjustably controlling the radius of rotation.

Abstract: An elongate formable drive rail for carrying a working apparatus having a toothed drive gear and support elements is provided in the form of a narrow elongate strip of metal having a regular series of corrugations extending lengthwise of the strip intermediate its edges and adapted to be engaged by the toothed drive gear while the edges of the strip engage the support elements.