Abstract: A connecting device for connecting a shank 16 to a measuring probe 18 is disclosed, to enable the probe 18 to be incorporated on a machine tool for the purpose of tracing a contour of a model. The device includes first and second parts (20,22) connected to the shank and the probe respectively, retained together by a connecting bolt 50 which is spring-loaded by means of Belville washers 56. An arm 60 extends from the second part to engage the housing 14 of the spindle 10, and thereby prevent rotation of the spindle shaft 12. In the event of accidental spindle start-up the two parts 20,22 may rotate relative to each other (the shank rotating with the shaft 12); a thrust bearing 42 enabling sliding of the two parts.

Abstract: A method of scanning a workpiece surface is disclosed in which a machine carrying a scanning head is moved along a path, preferably at constant velocity, while a surface contacting device is moved by the scanning head to oscillate transversely to the instantaneous path direction to scan an area of the surface. Transducers on the machine, the head, and where necessary the surface contacting device provide data relating to the positions of the surface contacting device to data gathering device under the control of a computer. Apparatus for carrying out the method is also disclosed and includes a scanning head for moving the surface detecting device which may be a stylus or a probe relative to one axis, and preferably orthogonal axes. The head can include a set-up for inertia balancing the head and mass balancing the surface detection device. Also the head may include air bearings on which the stylus or probe are supported for oscillation.

Abstract: An optical metrological scale produced by a rolling method, to give a profiled upper scale surface which is imparted by an embossing roller. To prevent uneven strains, which could affect the pitch of the scale, the support roller has a similar embossing profile, so that the lower side of the scale is also given a profiled surface. The embossing roller is freely rotatable, while the support roller is driven.

Abstract: A tape scale applicator (100) has a guiding channel (142) for aligning a metrological scale (126) relative to a substrate (150) to which the scale is applied. The applicator (100) is attached to a mounting bracket (153) for a read head (used to read the scale) provided on a member (154), which moves relative to the substrate (150). The applicator (100) is used to apply the scale (126) to the substrate in order to ensure that the scale (126) has a precise alignment with the read head, once the read head is connected to the mounting bracket (153). The tape scale (126) has a backing strip (140) which is removed via a second channel (170) as the scale (126) passes through the guiding channel (142).

Abstract: The invention is directed to an air cushion supported vegetation cutter including a cutter casing housing an impeller for creating the air cushion in conjunction with the casing. An aperture in the casing permits air flow to the impeller and a support structure supports a motor for driving the impeller. The support structure provides a duct for the flow of cooling air over the motor and the duct has cooling air outlets located upstream of the aperture in the casing. This arrangement provides an improved motor cooling arrangement in which the motor cooling air and the air for the impeller interact upstream of the impeller.