Abstract: A clamping cartridge is provided which comprises a plurality of clamping mechanisms spaced apart on a frame or chassis. The clamping mechanisms are generally oriented perpendicular to their direction of spacing. The clamping mechanisms are of the type which comprise a pair of relatively movable jaws which are normally biased towards one another such that they resist opening and which return to a closed or substantially closed condition in the absence of external forces. An actuator operable in association with the clamping mechanisms serves to open and close the jaws of the clamping mechanisms in unison. The actuator includes a series of rotatable tapered cylindrical cam wheels disposed on a rotatable cam shaft to ultimately effect opening and closing of the clamps, which cam wheels are disposed generally within the clamps. By providing apertures or slots in the jaws of the clamps to accommodate the cam shaft, a considerable reduction in the height of the cartridge can be realized.

Abstract: A clamping cartridge is provided which comprises a plurality of clamping mechanisms spaced apart on a frame or chassis. The clamping mechanisms are generally oriented perpendicular to their direction of spacing. The clamping mechanisms are of the type which comprise a pair of relatively movable jaws which are normally biased towards one another such that they resist opening and which return to a closed or substantially closed condition in the absence of external forces. An actuator operable in association with the clamping mechanisms serves to open and close the jaws of the clamping mechanisms in unison. The actuator includes a series of rotatable tapered cylindrical cam wheels disposed on a rotatable cam shaft to ultimately effect opening and closing of the clamps, which cam wheels are disposed generally within the clamps. By providing apertures or slots in the jaws of the clamps to accommodate the cam shaft, a considerable reduction in the height of the cartridge can be realized.