Abstract: Generally trapezoid-shaped friction material pads can be used in conjunction with piston assemblies having torque collars with upstanding torque posts and with torque collars that have torque legs with inclined inner faces or shoulders to embrace side faces or shoulders of the pads. A retainer clip cooperates with the torque legs to prevent unwanted radial movement of the pad. A back plate of the pad has one or more tabs projecting beyond a wider base of the pad for facilitating pad removal. Tabs on the pad for indicating that a worn friction pad is due for replacement are located beyond the wider base of the pad or within the friction material pad. The friction pads are adapted for installation on module bases which include air ports on side surfaces and are constructed for interconnection that provides for air transfer between adjacent modules via the air ports.

Abstract: A double-acting, floating, frictional coupling mechanism including an air-operated diaphragm-type piston having a piston rod in meshed engagement with a set of different gears. The differential gearing intensifies the force transmitted through the piston rod by the air-operated piston.

Abstract: A double-acting, floating, frictional coupling mechanism including an air-operated diaphragm-type piston with integral rack guided for axial movement in meshed engagement with a rotatably connected pinion. A cam on the pinion shaft cooperates with a second piston and intensifies the force transmitted through the rack and pinion by the air-operated piston.

Abstract: An inexpensive frictional coupling mechanism, useful in smaller brakes and clutches includes an air operated piston and cylinder assembly for single or double-acting use in either a dual disc, single disc or caliper type frictional brake or clutch arrangement.

Abstract: Because of its physical properties, mercury can be very effective as hydraulic fluid in a double-action piston and cylinder assembly mounted to float between opposed discs of a friction brake or clutch. The mercury is contained within a chamber of the piston-cylinder assembly and the high surface tension of the fluid prevents leakage.

Abstract: The rate of rotation of the shaft of a winding apparatus for webs of sheet material is controlled by means of a transmission system comprising a plurality of non-slip drive clutches arranged for successive engagement to provide stepwise reduction in the output speed of the system. The drive clutches are arranged to provide different ratios of speed reduction. As one drive clutch is disengaged, the next drive clutch is engaged and output speed is reduced. These drive clutches in turn drive the shaft of the winding apparatus through a slip clutch. The means for engaging and disengaging the drive clutches can be an automatic sensing device or a preset timer. The system can be used for winders, rewinders and unwinding apparatus.

Abstract: A valve for introducing air or other fluid into a fluid actuated mechanical device has an L-shaped passage through a valve stem. The valve stem is movable lengthwise between open and closed positions. In a fully open position the L-shaped passage delivers fluid from a source of fluid under pressure to a channel in a housing. In closed position the delivery end of the L-shaped passage is blocked. The valve stem also provides means for venting fluid from the channel while the L-shaped passage is blocked, when the stem is in an intermediate position.

Abstract: Friction brakes or clutches having pivotable or dismountable pods carrying friction members are provided with standard pods having adapters for use in brakes and clutches of various sizes. The standard pod can be used without adapters in small installations and with adapters in larger units. Simplified valve and fluid connection arrangements are employed.