Abstract: A production line which includes a shuttle conveyor extending between two work stations. A first transfer device for transferring a workpiece from one of the work stations to the conveyor and a second transfer device for transferring the workpiece to the second work station are equipped with workpiece gripping or supporting devices which may be rapidly changed when the line is shifted from the production of one form of workpiece to the production of another workpiece having a different configuration. Replacement workpiece gripping devices are supported adjacent the shuttle conveyor upon holding pedestals. Upon line changeover, the transfer devices locate their workpiece gripping devices upon empty holding pedestals and actuating devices on the pedestal release the gripping devices from their transfer devices. The empty transfer devices are then shifted and coupled to new workpiece gripping devices supported on other holding pedestals.

Abstract: An article transfer apparatus includes a power driven shuttle carriage mounted for movement along a first linear path between opposite end limits. An article holder assembly includes a base mounted on the carriage for movement relative to the carriage along a second linear path normal to the first linear path between opposite end limits. The holder base mounts a sleeve slidable along an elongate guide rod whose opposite ends may be independently positioned transversely of the first linear path.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatically handling a workpiece between automated workstations wherein the workpiece is lifted from an unloading workstation, moved along a predetermined linear reciprocal path between work stations while simultaneously inverting the workpiece, and lowering the workpiece into a loading workstation. The apparatus provides a vertical lift portion and an articulating portion for manipulating the workpiece. The vertical lift portion utilizes a compact design to minimize space requirements and moving parts by providing both vertical movement and rotational movement within a common structure. The articulating portion is attached to the bottom of the vertical lift portion and provides a pivot arm that is pivotally attached to a workpiece holder. The vertical lift portion provides a rotational input to a harmonic drive unit which has its output coupled to the pivot arm. When the pivot arm rotates, a continuous timing belt provides for counter-rotational movement of the workpiece holder.

Abstract: A production line which includes a shuttle conveyor extending between two work stations. A first transfer device for transferring a workpiece from one of the work stations to the conveyor and a second transfer device for transferring the workpiece to the second work station all equipped with workpiece gripping or supporting devices which may be rapidly changed when the line is shifted from the production of one form of workpiece to the production of another workpiece having a different configuration. Replacement workpiece gripping devices are supported adjacent the shuttle conveyor upon holding pedestals. Upon line changeover, the transfer devices locate their workpiece gripping devices upon empty holding pedestals and actuating devices on the pedestal release the gripping devices from their transfer devices. The empty transfer devices are then shifted and coupled to new workpiece gripping devices supported on other holding pedestals.

Abstract: A production line which includes a shuttle conveyor extending between two work stations. A first transfer device for transferring a workpiece from one of the work stations to the conveyor and a second transfer device for transferring the workpiece to the second work station all equipped with workpiece gripping or supporting devices which may be rapidly changed when the line is shifted from the production of one form of workpiece to the production of another workpiece having a different configuration. Replacement workpiece gripping devices are supported adjacent the shuttle conveyor upon holding pedestals. Upon line changeover, the transfer devices locate their workpiece gripping devices upon empty holding pedestals and actuating devices on the pedestal release the gripping devices from their transfer devices. The empty transfer devices are then shifted and coupled to new workpiece gripping devices supported on other holding pedestals.