Publication number: 20110291342
Abstract: Support engagement arrangements (100, 200, 1100, 1200, 2100, 3100, 3200) for utilisation in vices and presentation of components is a necessity, it is known to provide arrangements in which an array of engagement elements (2, 54, 64, 82, 92, 112, 902, 1401, 2003) are presented such that the elements can be displaced in order that ends define a reciprocal profile to a component (7, 57, 67, 87, 97, 117, 407, 1424, 2000). Retention of that reciprocal profile with prior arrangements is difficult. By providing the engagement elements supported upon a volume of particles (6, 56, 65, 86, 96, 116, 406, 806, 1402, 2006) which can act as a fluid medium relative displacement between the engaged elements can be achieved. Once displacement into a reciprocal profile is achieved the volume of particles is locked by actuator (4, 84, 94, 114, 404, 804, 904, 2007) pressure and therefore in support of a component resistance to vibration and other factors is significantly enhanced.
Type:
Application
Filed:
September 23, 2009
Publication date:
December 1, 2011
Inventors:
Nabil Gindy, Yan Wang, Mark Daine, Kevin Walker