Abstract: A power and free roller conveyor has a plurality of spaced rollers defining a conveyor path and to each of which is fixed a drive that comprises the secondary of a linear induction motor. The primary of the linear induction motor is positioned adjacent the drivers to enable an interaction of magnetic flux and current resulting from the propagation of a magnetic wave along the primary to cause the drivers and the rollers to rotate. The speed, torque, and direction of rotation of the rollers can be controlled by a voltage and frequency control unit.

Abstract: A template and workpiece holder including template and workpiece centering mechanisms. The workpiece centering mechanism includes a rack and pinion gear arrangement. Toggle clamps are provided for clamping the holder, template and workpiece assemblage together. The holder includes handles for grasping by an operator for guiding the assemblage through a router, shaper or the like.

Abstract: A conveyor comprises a plurality of rotors spaced longitudinally along a conveyor frame, each rotor having a rotatable shaft on which is fixed a number of axially spaced discs. The discs are staggered laterally of the conveyor and are of such diameter that the discs of adjacent rotors overlap one another. Each disc has at least one notch in its periphery, but the remainder of the peripheral surface is smooth. The notches of the discs of each rotor are adapted to support a workpiece and transfer it from one rotor to another in response to rotation thereof. A barrier is mounted between each adjacent pair of rotors to prevent transfer of a workpiece from one set of discs to another unless the workpiece is properly seated in the notches of the upstream rotor. Each rotor has a clutch assembly connecting it to a continuously operable driving motor, thereby enabling any rotor to cease rotation without stopping the motor.

Abstract: A roller conveyor construction has a plurality of longitudinally spaced rollers through each of which extends a shaft journaled at its opposite ends in journal supports which are slideably mounted between a pair of support members for linear movement in a vertical plane only. The journal support for each roller preferably is equipped with yieldable and adjustable suspension means and each roller may include an adjustable, overload clutch drive mechanism.

Abstract: A manually manipulatable device for adjusting the position of a workpiece supported on a machine having relatively movable parts operated by electrically controlled, selectively energizable and deenergizable driving means comprises an elongate arm having a workpiece engageable fork at one end and a support at its other end for manipulation by an operator. The support preferably is pistol-shaped having a grip at one end and a barrel at its other end. The support includes two normally open, manually closable electrical switches in circuit with the machine's driving means to effect energization of the latter under the control of the workpiece manipulating device, but only when both of the switches are closed. The switches are spaced apart from one another a distance greater than that which can be spanned by the fingers of one hand of the operator, thereby preventing closing of both switches unless the operator's hands are on the support.