Abstract: A cylindrical tumbler has a plurality of angled slots positioned about its periphery, the leading edge face of each slot forming an angled impeller vane. When the tumbler is placed on an intake plug and suction applied through the plug, the tumbler spins throwing off any debris which may otherwise accumulate on the strainer. In alternate embodiments, lengths of flexible strand can be attached to the periphery of the tumbler or two tumblers with oppositely angled slots, and hence, opposite spin directions can be positioned on the same plug to increase turbulence and further reduce debris accumulation.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for machining a radius or diameter defined feature at locations on a workpiece that are not symmetrically with respect to the workpiece boundaries, wherein the method employs a simplified and precise set up process which assures exact feature location; and the apparatus for implementing the method employs a dual jawed adjustable workpiece holder formed as a highly versatile V-block device wherein the V-point may be precisely shifted in vernier increments along both X and Y axes responsive to user input controlled translations of one or both adjustable jaws along parallel axes. A baseline method employs determining first and second distances from a feature central axis and first and second boundary points on the workpiece , and then using a 90 degree technique to first adjust the workpiece holder in translation and then adjust an adjustable V-block jaw.

Abstract: A dual jawed adjustable workpiece holder is formed as a highly versatile V-block related device wherein the V-point may be precisely shifted in vernier increments along both X and Y axes in response to lead screw driven translations of one or both adjustable jaws along parallel axes. The pair of mirror image jaws are slidably retained in an interior, U-shaped cavity formed into a rectangular shaped overall workpiece holder. Upon being adjusted to translate a workpiece to a desired location in an XY plane, individual locking screws secure the jaws in position. The thus configured workpiece holder may be used in combination with various grinding machines and clamping means to rapidly and precisely position and retain a workpiece with a high degree of positional repeatability.

Abstract: A rapid acting adjustable clamp includes a precision ground dovetail track which carries a cam actuated locking assembly along a bridge portion of the clamp to provide quick initial setup, secure workpiece retention, quick release, and highly repeatable subsequent re-actuation of the clamp. The resulting positive acting clamp is particularly advantageous for use in precision grinding, milling, and electron discharge machining operations where a number of similar workpieces are to be machined. The dovetail joint provides rapid sliding adjustment along a first workpiece engaging axis while a single threadedly adjustable screw provides rapid setup along an orthogonal workpiece engaging axis. The combination of these quick adjustments with the single lever cam locking actuation greatly reduces the number of repetitive operator manipulations required in its use, resulting in significantly improved clamping action and in increased productivity by its use.