Abstract: The clutch mechanism of the present invention is constructed such that in an unlocked, free position, a set of pins and linkages are off line and permit a pivotable wedge member to accommodate movement of a line (e.g., rope) that is carried by a rotatable member without causing wedging of the line since the wedge member is moved away from the rotatable member and therefore the line can freely travel through the clutch mechanism. However, when the set of pins and linkages is brought in line, the wedge member moves toward the rotatable member, thereby downsizing the line path and locking the line when the wedge member pivots to cause the line to become wedged between the pivotable wedge surface and the rotatable member.

Abstract: A rotary trimmer apparatus and signature trimming method are provided that enable operators to set a gap spacing between a rotating knife and an anvil at different predetermined sizes in an easy and accurate manner. The operator chooses the optimum knife/anvil spacing that produces a scissors-like cutting action on the particular type of signatures being trim cut and which does not cause premature knife dulling. The selected knife/anvil spacing is readily reproducable for future runs with the same operating conditions. This is true regardless of changes in the knife thickness as can be created by sharpening thereof, or knife replacement. For this purpose, a user operated control assembly including a control knob and calibrated indexer are provided. To keep the knife/anvil spacing at the set size during trim cutting operations, a temperature control system is employed that keeps axial expansion of the knife spindle shaft from reducing the gap size.

Abstract: A rotary trimmer apparatus and signature trimming method are provided that enable operators to set a gap spacing between a rotating knife and an anvil at different predetermined sizes in an easy and accurate manner. The operator chooses the optimum knife/anvil spacing that produces a scissors-like cutting action on the particular type of signatures being trim cut and which does not cause premature knife dulling. The selected knife/anvil spacing is readily reproducable for future runs with the same operating conditions. This is true regardless of changes in the knife thickness as can be created by sharpening thereof, or knife replacement. For this purpose, a user operated control assembly including a control knob and calibrated indexer are provided. To keep the knife/anvil spacing at the set size during trim cutting operations, a temperature control system is employed that keeps axial expansion of the knife spindle shaft from reducing the gap size.

Abstract: Apparatus for working flat stock in accordance with a pattern, the apparatus including a table adapted to receive the pattern, a line tracer adapted automatically to move along lines of the pattern, a carriage assembly adapted to move in accordance with instructions received from the line tracer which is mounted on the carriage assembly, a tool holder mounted on the carriage assembly, the carriage assembly being adapted to move the tool holder over the flat stock in a configuration duplicating that of the pattern.