Gear Means Patents (Class 269/61)
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Publication number: 20090056630Abstract: A workpiece support system for a vacuum coating machine includes a base table having a rotating spindle rod that extends in a vertical direction away from the base table and is capable of powered rotation. A stop post is connected to the table and extends in a vertical direction at a distance from the spindle rod. A workpiece support module is connected to the spindle rod and the stop post, and includes a rotating table with peripheral openings arranged symmetrically around its periphery, a plurality of cogs positioned in the openings, a stationary table connected to the stop post and axially supporting the rotating table, and a driver finger connected to the stationary table. At least one bearing is located around the spindle rod and rotatably isolates the rotating table from the stationary table.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 27, 2007Publication date: March 5, 2009Applicant: CATERPILLAR INC.Inventors: Virgil R. Hester, Jeffrey P. Werner
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Patent number: 7456750Abstract: A system for detecting and suppressing a fire condition in a storage unit. The system comprises a transmitter associated with the storage unit and configured to transmit a first signal upon detection of the fire condition, at least one receiver configured to detect the first signal and configured to provide a second signal indicating detection of the fire condition, and a fire suppression device configured to discharge a fire suppressant material into the storage unit upon detection of the fire condition. There may also be a plurality of storage units, a plurality of transmitters, and a plurality of receivers. An individual transmitter and an individual receiver may be associated with each of the plurality of storage units. Each of the storage units may be located at a predetermined position relative to the individual receiver associated with the storage unit.Type: GrantFiled: April 19, 2001Date of Patent: November 25, 2008Assignee: Federal Express CorporationInventors: James B. Popp, Arthur J. Benjamin
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Publication number: 20080246204Abstract: Disclosed is a multi-axis workpiece manipulator or positioning device (10) having movement along two rectilinear axes (L1 and L2), two pivotable or tilt axes (T1 and T2) and two rotational axes (R1 and R2). The positioning device (10) includes a support base (12), a first member (18) attached to the support base (12) extending axially therefrom and a carriage (24) adjustably connected to the first member (18). The support base (12) is movable in a longitudinal path along a first rectilinear axis (L1) and the carriage is movable along the first member (18) in a vertical path along a second rectilinear axis (L2). A second member (30) is pivotably and rotatably attached to the carriage (24) and extends axially away from the carriage (24). The second member (30) can pivotably move along a first tilt axis (T1) with respect to the carriage (24) and can rotate in a circular path along a first rotational axis (R1).Type: ApplicationFiled: July 27, 2005Publication date: October 9, 2008Applicant: ELLIOTT COMPANYInventors: Timothy J. Wilkinson, Kent W. Beedon
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Patent number: 7284738Abstract: An adjustable lumber stand system may include a pair of adjustable leg assemblies. Each leg assembly may comprise a first external tubular section into which a second internal section may longitudinally slidably adjust. A pair of base anchors configured to anchor the pair of adjustable leg assemblies may be coupled to lower ends of the first external tubular sections. A pair of adjustable support bracket assemblies may comprise a brace and a support arm configured to support lumber. The first end portions of the support arms and the braces may be coupled to one another and second end portions of the support arms and the braces may be coupled to different locations on the first external tubular sections. A pair of top anchors configured to anchor the pair of adjustable leg assemblies to a structure may be coupled to upper ends of the second internal section.Type: GrantFiled: July 8, 2005Date of Patent: October 23, 2007Inventor: Richard E. Staneart
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Patent number: 6988719Abstract: A stand for movably supporting a workpiece is disclosed. The stand includes a base, a support and a plurality of roller assemblies. The support is releasably connected to the base for permitting the height of the stand to be altered. The roller assemblies are mounted on diverging surfaces which are in turn mounted at oblique angles relative to the support for permitting non-interfering movement of the workpiece relative thereto. Each roller assembly includes a sphere captured within a collar mounted on a selected one of the diverging surfaces for permitting free-rolling movement of the sphere relative to the collar and the workpiece.Type: GrantFiled: June 4, 2003Date of Patent: January 24, 2006Assignee: HTC Products, Inc.Inventors: Michael Ursell, Timothy Hewitt
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Patent number: 6955345Abstract: An inclining and rotating table apparatus comprises a rotating table device having a rotating table, and a support base for rotatably supporting the rotating table having a shaft body provided perpendicular to a rotation axis of the rotating table, and a base for rotatably supporting the rotating table device using the shaft body. A table surface of the rotating table is inclined by making the rotating table device rotate. A first V-shaped groove is directly formed in the shaft body along its rotating direction. The base has a second V-shaped groove opposing the first V-shaped groove. A cross roller bearing is structured by providing rolling bodies, which are placed in contact with the first and second V-shaped grooves and are capable of rolling therebetween, between the shaft body and the base, and arranging a rolling axis of a rolling body perpendicular to that of an adjacent rolling body.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 2003Date of Patent: October 18, 2005Assignee: Sankyo Seisakusho Co.Inventor: Heizaburo Kato
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Patent number: 6733217Abstract: A workpiece holding means for machine tools and more particularly for milling and/or drilling machines, comprising a pivoting bridge supported between two bearing walls. The bearing walls respectively laterally delimit a working area. At least one drive motor serves for pivoting the pivoting bridge, such motor being arranged outside the working area on at least one outer side of the bearing walls. The pivoting bridge is provided with a gear ring adjacent to one or both of the inner sides of the bearing walls, such gear ring being drivingly connected with the drive gear wheel driven by at least one drive motor. The bearing points or bearing pins of the pivoting bridge accordingly do not have to transmit any drive torque and are not subjected to any torque load so that more precise running and more precise positioning is possible.Type: GrantFiled: May 28, 2002Date of Patent: May 11, 2004Assignee: Maschinenfabrik Berthold Hermle AGInventors: Tobias Schwörer, Franz-Xaver Bernhard
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Patent number: 6682061Abstract: An actuator system is disclosed for positioning a component interface relative to a work surface, including a first shaft coupled to the worksurface and a counterweight coupled to the first shaft, a second shaft coupled to the worksurface and the component interface coupled to the second shaft, a coupler communicating with the first shaft and the second shaft, a clutch mechanism in operable engagement with the second shaft; and a power source coupled to the second shaft for selectively applying a force to the second shaft when the clutch mechanism is engaged.Type: GrantFiled: January 14, 2002Date of Patent: January 27, 2004Assignee: Johnson Controls Technology CompanyInventors: Eric Steenwyk, Brian L. Brinks, Paul Brinks
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Patent number: 6619640Abstract: The present invention relates to a vehicle component support carriage for maneuvering heavy engines, transmissions, or vehicle rear end differentials while those components are being serviced. The apparatus includes a wheeled carriage that supports an enclosed drive apparatus used to incrementally rotate the heavy component for servicing, replacing parts or cleaning the component. The apparatus support apparatus is arranged so that a removable portion of it is aligned and secured to the first engagement member before the heavy component is assembled to the wheeled carriage on a journaled shaft that is operatively connected to the drive apparatus. The removable portion of the support apparatus is pre-disposed with a pattern of mounted apertures or hardware that will present a balanced assembly when loaded on the carriage support apparatus. A second variation enables servicing of two engines at once, both engines being balanced and supported similarly.Type: GrantFiled: August 28, 2001Date of Patent: September 16, 2003Inventor: Gregory Ploski
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Patent number: 6450490Abstract: A quick change fixture mounting arrangement includes a pair of mating ball-and-socket connectors at the headstock end of the fixture and a ball joint coupler at the tailstock end of the fixture. This arrangement allows for some misalignment of the fixture relative to the axis of rotation and permits the fixture to be rotated about a second, external axis of rotation.Type: GrantFiled: February 16, 2001Date of Patent: September 17, 2002Assignee: Genesis Systems Group, Ltd.Inventors: Jan C. Mangelsen, John W. Brewer, Michael P. Skahill
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Publication number: 20020008343Abstract: Devices adapted to position exactly a workpiece and a machine tool for machining the workpiece to create a shaped article that conforms to a specification therefor. The device for positioning the workpiece includes a rotary table in which the workpiece is held so that it can be machined in the round by the tool. The table is turned by a slider that is driven by a stepping motor and is reciprocated by a pair of drums which are linked by flexible metal bands to opposite ends of the slider. When the motor causes the drums to rotate clockwise, the slider is then pulled in one direction by the bands, and when the drums are caused to rotate counterclockwise, the slider then advances in a reverse direction. A similar device serves to exactly position the machine tool.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 24, 2001Publication date: January 24, 2002Applicant: OPTICLIP LTD.Inventors: Zvi Feldman, Yehuda Avikazar
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Patent number: 6149144Abstract: A movable work bench used in repairing a transmission of a vehicle is provided, in which it is possible to control a desired height of the work bench, make fine adjustments for keeping the balance of the transmission supported on the work bench, and easily move the work bench due to the conditions of a working area. The movable work bench comprises a moving body installed at a lower portion of the work bench, a housing having one end mounted on a central portion and another end to which a cap is installed, an elevating means installed in the housing, a driving means mounted on a part of the elevating means for lifting and lowering the elevating means, and a supporting body safely supporting the transmission and lifted and lowered through the operation of the elevating means.Type: GrantFiled: February 11, 1999Date of Patent: November 21, 2000Inventor: Tae-Hong Ha
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Patent number: 6101702Abstract: A windshield lift acting between the floor of a vehicle and the inside surface of the windshield with the aid of suction cups to apply an outward force to place the seal which bonds the windshield to the vehicle frame under tension. The peripheral seal can then be easily cut with a knife.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1998Date of Patent: August 15, 2000Inventors: Kevin Claycomb, Sandra Claycomb
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Patent number: 6089440Abstract: A vehicle assembly tool includes a base and a frame pivotably coupled to the base. The frame is configured for holding a plurality of vehicle parts to be welded together. A motor is coupled to the frame via a gear system to move the frame relative to the base. Per the present disclosure, the base can be juxtaposed with a plurality of robotic welders, each having an end effector with six degrees of freedom, and the frame then moved relative to the base to essentially provide a seventh degree of freedom for welding the parts together. Also, the frame can be programmed to return, after welding, to one of several user-defined load positions, each of which load positions can be tailored to a respective individual for facilitating ergonomic loading of parts into the frame by the particular individual.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1998Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Assignee: Chrysler CorporationInventor: Christie F. Brusha
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Patent number: 6085961Abstract: A vehicle assembly tool includes a base and a frame pivotably coupled to the base. The frame is configured for holding a plurality of vehicle parts to be welded together. A motor is coupled to the frame via a gear system to move the frame relative to the base. Per the present disclosure, the base can be juxtaposed with a plurality of robotic welders, each having an end effector with six degrees of freedom, and the frame then moved relative to the base to essentially provide a seventh degree of freedom for welding the parts together. Also, the frame can be programmed to return, after welding, to one of several user-defined load positions, each of which load positions can be tailored to a respective individual for facilitating ergonomic loading of parts into the frame by the particular individual.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1998Date of Patent: July 11, 2000Assignee: Chrysler CorporationInventor: Christie F. Brusha
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Patent number: 5971381Abstract: A cross-beam for a vacuum hold-down table formed by a monoblock section upon which a vacuum hold-down table is fitted and movable on slides. The monoblock section houses a first tubular chamber which extends along its length and is connected to external vacuum source. A part of the first chamber has an opening on which a magnetic seal with a plurality of evenly distributed holes is placed and fitted over this seal on the outside of the monoblock section first chamber is a deformable strip of magnetic material which is movable from one position which closes the first chamber to another position which opens the said chamber during the passage of a deflector unit on the strip which is fixed to the vacuum hold-down table and connects the first chamber and vacuum hold-down table at any point on the monoblock section.Type: GrantFiled: May 17, 1995Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Assignee: SCM Group S.p.AInventor: Giuseppe Gemmani
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Patent number: 5964457Abstract: A cockpit carrier includes a welded frame having a first clamp and a second clamp rotatably mounted therein defining an axis of rotation. The clamps adapted to receive a cockpit flame. A gearbox is mounted between the first clamp and a handwheel to allow for manual rotational manipulation of the cockpit frame. The cockpit carrier further includes a brake caliper mounted to the welded frame, the caliper having friction pads disposed therein and a spring mounted thereto to bias the caliper in an engaged position. A lever pivotally attached to the lame and the caliper allows for manual positioning of the caliper in a disengaged position. The gearbox further has an input shaft and a brake disc mounted thereto.Type: GrantFiled: December 19, 1997Date of Patent: October 12, 1999Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventor: Lorenzo Guajardo
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Patent number: 5873569Abstract: The invention relates to a workpiece positioner and assembly therefore which optimizes workpiece rotation for manufacturing processes, and specifically for use with an industrial robot. In general, the workpiece positioner assembly is supported on a base. The workpiece positioner assembly is rectangular in shape and includes drive arms and idler arms between which workpieces are supported. Due to the unique shape of the workpiece positioner assembly, the workpiece-to-workpiece rotational clearance can be reduced to zero due in part to the position of cross tubing from the drive end of the workpiece positioner assembly to the idler end of the workpiece positioner assembly. The cross tubing does not interfere with the workpiece rotational area thereby allowing workpiece size and orientation to be increased without affecting positioner swing or operation height.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 1996Date of Patent: February 23, 1999Assignee: Genesis Systems GroupInventors: Douglas K. Boyd, Michael J. McCreary, Christopher J. Schilb
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Patent number: 5863034Abstract: A work piece stand is described which includes a vertical post, an arm, and means for securing the work piece to the arm. Attached to the arm is a panel member and a support bar extending perpendicularly outwardly therefrom. Both the panel member and the support bar have apertures for securing the arm to the work piece. A pivoting means pivotally interconnects the arm to the post and divides the arm into a first arm portion and a second arm portion. The second arm portion is selectively extendable to a position where the center of gravity of the combination of the arm, the work piece and the securing means is disposed substantially along the axis of rotation of the pivoting means, thereby making the work piece easy to position for performing work thereon.Type: GrantFiled: October 24, 1996Date of Patent: January 26, 1999Inventor: Andrew F. Vauter
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Patent number: 5690323Abstract: A holding device for peripherally holding workpieces of any desired outline is provided, comprising two shape-adjustable jaws arranged opposite one another on a base body. The gripping surfaces of the jaws are constituted a plurality of plungers able to be moved independently against such workpiece by fluid power and arrested in a work holding position. The base body is rotatably supported in a clasping device for turning about an axis perpendicular to the work holding direction and possesses a connection member for the fluid power operation of the fluid power drive of the plungers at least. Furthermore a counter-connection member connected with fluid power lines is adapted to be thrust against the connection member and in the stationary state of the base body is able to be coupled with the same in a certain angular setting, the base body possessing valve means for locking the positions of the plungers in the clamping state thereof after uncoupling the counter-connection member.Type: GrantFiled: April 16, 1996Date of Patent: November 25, 1997Assignee: Gotz GmbHInventors: Hermann Puttmer, Peter Abraham
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Patent number: 5609332Abstract: A device for lifting and holding a cabinet to be mounted to a wall or ceiling. A base member is mounted on a suitable support, and a hollow, linear, elongate drive shaft extends upwardly from the base member. An elongate lift shaft is received coaxially within the drive shaft, with the lift shaft being driven in a longitudinal movement up and down within the drive shaft. At least two elongate, hollow stabilizer shafts are spaced outwardly from the drive shaft, with a longitudinal axis of each stabilizer shaft being substantially parallel with a longitudinal axis of the drive shaft. An elongate idler shaft is received coaxially within each stabilizer shaft, with each idler shaft being movable longitudinally within its respective stabilizer shaft so that the upper end of the idler shaft can move up and down relative to the upper end of the respective stabilizer shaft.Type: GrantFiled: November 14, 1995Date of Patent: March 11, 1997Inventor: Clayton Hassell
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Patent number: 5497060Abstract: A positioning stage wherein encoder pair means on a table which is movable on a frame by a drive and transmission system generate a signal independent of lost motion in that system so that a microprocessor can fix the position of the table in a predetermined position with respect to the frame irrespective of that lost motion.Type: GrantFiled: June 21, 1993Date of Patent: March 5, 1996Inventor: Albert M. Juergens, III
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Patent number: 5407184Abstract: A mechanism for rotating a machine element and in particular for rotating a mandrel which holds a workpiecein a machine comprises a first frame member having a substantially linear road surface. A machine element is rotatably secured to a carrier on an axis extending transverse to the road surface. The machine element includes a wheel member having a substantially circular wheel surface adapted to engage the road surface, and may include a mandrel adapted to hold a workpiece. A first drive mechanism is operable for moving the carrier and the first frame member relatively together for engagement of the wheel surface with the road surface, and for moving or at least permitting movement of the carrier and the first frame member relatively apart for disengagement of the wheel surface from the road surface. A second drive mechanism is operable to produce relative movement of the carrier parallel to the road surface.Type: GrantFiled: October 28, 1993Date of Patent: April 18, 1995Assignee: The Whitaker CorporationInventors: Paul E. Hollis, Edward N. Meyers
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Patent number: 5316276Abstract: A system capable of automatically compensating for the thickness of a workpiece which comprises: at least one actuator assembly which comprises a vacuum chuck capable of supporting a workpiece thereon vacuum means capable of providing the vacuum chuck with sufficient vacuum for maintain the workpiece in contact with the vacuum chuck, the vacuum means including a centrally located vacuum conduit portion, means for adjustably securing the vacuum chuck to the vacuum conduit portion, actuator means rotatably disposed about the vacuum conduit portion, and means for reciprocally moving the actuator means such that its movement produces a similar reciprocal movement by the vacuum chuck; motor means and gear assembly connected to the means for reciprocally moving the actuator means; means for detecting the thickness of the workpiece; and means for controlling the motor means and gear assembly so as to move the actuator means, whereby the height of the workpiece can be automatically and continuously adjusted to the vaType: GrantFiled: December 18, 1992Date of Patent: May 31, 1994Inventor: Konrad Heinle
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Patent number: 5292041Abstract: An adjustable elastic band inspecting apparatus comprising a supporting frame attached to a bench by a C-clamp, and an inspection holder connected to the support frame by a pivoting axle that enables the height and inclination of the inspection holder to be adjusted. The inspection holder further contains adjustable brackets symmetrically disposed and adaptable for elastic bands of various sizes. The brackets can be rotated by manipulating a locating bar to facilitate the inspection of two sides of elastic bands.Type: GrantFiled: May 25, 1993Date of Patent: March 8, 1994Assignee: China Textile T & R InstituteInventor: Shin-Chuan Yao
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Patent number: 5253454Abstract: A buffing fixture and structure for supporting large and thin metal skins during a finishing operation. The structure includes a plurality of individual form fixtures, at least one trunnion table mounted for rotation along a horizontally disposed axis, and a motor for causing the rotation of the trunnion table. Each of the form fixtures is comprised of a frame having at least one brace which extends outwardly from the frame, a form shell mounted to the frame such that the interior surface is in contact with a longitudinal edge of the brace, and a layer of foam disposed substantially along the entire interior surface of the form shell in order to support the surface area of the form shell. The form shell has a three dimensional shape which follows the three dimensional shape of the metal skin to be finished.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1992Date of Patent: October 19, 1993Assignee: Acme Manufacturing CompanyInventors: Don F. Carlson, Richard Koch
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Patent number: 5199692Abstract: A clamp device drive apparatus for driving a clamp device engaged with a T-shaped groove slidably between a clamping position and an unclamping position, comprises a push-pull chain connected to a clamp device, a vertical housing for containing the chain, guide members for turning a running course of the chain, a sprocket engaged with the chain, and a cylinder drive type motor for driving the sprocket to rotate, and the motor is constituted to drive the sprocket with a double acting fluid cylinder or a pair of single acting fluid cylinder, through ball screw mechanism for converting driving force into driving torque.Type: GrantFiled: March 22, 1991Date of Patent: April 6, 1993Assignee: Aioi Seiki, Inc.Inventors: Seiji Kimura, Kouji Wada
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Patent number: 5143360Abstract: A spindle of clamping apparatus is adjusted in height or elevation in an infinitely variable manner by means of a transmission. The transmission comprises a pinion connected with a motor meshing with a gear wheel, which is indirectly connected with the spindle. The apparatus is especially useful for clamping large-are a work pieces.Type: GrantFiled: June 20, 1991Date of Patent: September 1, 1992Assignee: Deutsche Airbus GmbHInventors: Enno Wilken, Helmut Eickhorst
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Patent number: 5074741Abstract: The invention relates to a manipulator for positioning workpieces with respect to an industrial robot (4) by which the work pieces, one after the other, are to be processed. The manipulator (2) comprises at least two fixture supports (26,27) each having fixture members for holding a respective work piece, a holder (16) for the fixture supports, movably suspended for moving one of said fixture supports from a loading position, in which exchange of a work piece held in said fixture members may take place, towards an operative position within the operating range of the robot, while simultaneously moving another one of said fixtures from the operative position towards the loading position. A turning servo motor (32) common to the fixture supports is drivingly engageable with a fixture support (26) held in the operative position so as to be able to rotate said fixture support, e.g.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1990Date of Patent: December 24, 1991Assignee: Torsteknik ABInventor: John I. E. Johansson
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Patent number: 5069269Abstract: A lifting and turning unit for a melting or casting plant. The lifting and turning unit for a deposit stand, preferably a table, for ingot molds of a vacuum melting and casting plant is provided. The unit consists of a tubular, vertically arranged lifter column that is axially movable with a hydraulic piston-cylinder unit and that has its upper end carrying the ingot mold table. A guide system composed of guide columns and of a yoke is provided. The guide columns serve for guiding the lifter column and for protecting the lifter column against twisting. The drive for the rotation of the rotatable ingot mold table is connected to the lifter column away from the harsh chamber environment. The unit provides an extremely low maintenance lifting and turing device wherein the longitudinal movements and the rotary movements can be executed separately from one another and thus allow for an exact positioning of the table.Type: GrantFiled: October 30, 1990Date of Patent: December 3, 1991Assignee: Leybold AktiengesellschaftInventors: Wolfgang Reuter, Josef Gediga
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Patent number: 4955961Abstract: A working machine comprises a machine body provided with a pair of arms which are arranged for movement toward and away from each other. The machine body is disposed for rotation, relative to a bracket mounted on the machine body, about an axis. A hydraulic cylinder assembly has a single cylinder defining therein a hydraulic chamber, and a single piston mounted to a piston rod extending through the hydraulic chamber, the piston rod having opposite ends thereof, which extend respectively from opposite ends of the hydraulic chamber, and which are fixedly connected to the bracket. Upon introduction of hydraulic fluid into the hydraulic chamber, the cylinder and a rack fixedly mounted to the outside of the cylinder are moved in the direction perpendicular to the axis, so as to cause a pinion meshing with the rack and the machine body connected with the pinion to rotate about the axis, thereby changing the direction of the plane in which the arms mounted on the machine body are moved.Type: GrantFiled: June 22, 1989Date of Patent: September 11, 1990Assignee: Tagawakougyou Co. Ltd.Inventor: Itsuo Tagawa
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Patent number: 4915157Abstract: A core handling apparatus includes an upright, tubular frame adapted for being suspended from an overhead hoist. A pair of upright air cylinders are fixed to opposite sides of the frame and each includes a reciprocable rod. Upper and lower shafts are respectively rotatably mounted in upper and lower end portions of the frame. A first length of roller chain is engaged with a first sprocket mounted on the upper shaft and has its opposite ends coupled to the respective upper ends of the piston rods of the pair of cylinders while a second length of roller chain is engaged with a second sprocket mounted on the lower shaft and has its opposite ends coupled to the respective lower ends of the piston rods. A mandrel plate is fixed for rotation with the lower shaft and is adapted for having various core handling attachments releasably secured thereto.Type: GrantFiled: June 12, 1989Date of Patent: April 10, 1990Assignee: Deere & CompanyInventor: Larry D. Durchenwald
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Patent number: 4890655Abstract: A butt-end wood holding system for a tenoning-and-mortising apparatus. The butt-end wood holding system comprising a pivotal guide member which engages the butt-end of a work-piece. The pivotal guide member is rotatably linked to the relatively fixed base of the mortising-and-tenoning spindle so that rotation of a concentric and rotatable support ring of the guide member, located about the spindle support, results in a parallel horizontal translation of the pivoting guide member. The butt-end wood guide member support being separately linked to the relatively fixed mortising-and-tenoning spindle support.Type: GrantFiled: April 18, 1989Date of Patent: January 2, 1990Assignee: Okoma Oberkochener Machinen GmbHInventor: Siegfried Zweig
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Patent number: 4867621Abstract: An indexing and locating component to be used with a fixture for precision machining of parts. The component includes a housing that is positioned on the upper surface of the fixture and which contains a bevel gear arrangement which moves a locating pin arrangement in a predetermined vertical direction to provide a precise locating support point for a workpiece. The gear arrangement may be operated at a position remote from the component.Type: GrantFiled: October 14, 1988Date of Patent: September 19, 1989Assignee: General Dynamics Corporation, Convair DivisionInventor: Manifred Morghen
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Patent number: 4854645Abstract: Brush-manufacturing machine of the type equipped with a drum (1) for the transportation of the brush bodies (2) along the various processing stations, having the characteristic that the drum (1) is equipped with brush body holders (12-13-14-15) which at least at their clamping sides facing the brush bodies (2) can be revolved and/or removed from their respective sides with which they work in concert with the drum (1).Type: GrantFiled: March 3, 1988Date of Patent: August 8, 1989Assignee: Firma G. B. Boucherie, naamloze vennootschapInventor: Leonel Boucherie
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Patent number: 4809961Abstract: A fixture holds a workpiece in a plurality of orientations. The fixture is operable to flip the workpiece into a plurality of positions for work to be performed thereon. Each workpiece is mounted at the end of the spindle and secured thereat by a workpiece holder which takes a variety of forms depending on the size and shape of the workpiece.Type: GrantFiled: May 21, 1987Date of Patent: March 7, 1989Inventors: Carl A. Anderson, deceased, by Christine Anderson, legal representative
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Patent number: 4779856Abstract: A teaching apparatus for teaching how to take measurements to connect two pieces of pipe whether or not such pieces are offset from each other or in a straight line. The apparatus includes a main support, an upstanding post laterally movable on the main support, a first pipe section holder on the post selectively movable vertically therealong and a sub-support spaced from the main support having an upstanding flange member laterally movable on the sub-support having a second pipe section holder thereon angularly adjustable with respect to the flange member on the sub-support. The pipe section holders can be used to clamp a pipe section therein and adjusted to set up a predetermined spacing and angular relationship between the unconnected pipe sections. The angularity of the main support and the sub-support in their horizontal planes can also be adjusted. In this manner, the apparatus can be used to teach the interconnection of the pipe sections or to actually determine the proper coupling therebetween.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 1987Date of Patent: October 25, 1988Inventor: Robert Beeler
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Patent number: 4771980Abstract: A stand or support for various kinds and types of small motors, generators and air compressors while servicing them, as well as testing them under running conditions, the stand or support having a bracket attachable to a bench or vertical post and a simple frame being supported for rotation thereon. The frame comprises an elongated angle iron member to one end of which an engine support is connected fixedly and perpendicularly thereto and a second similar engine support extends perpendicularly from the elongated member and is longitudinally adjustable therealong but is adapted to be clamped at any desired location thereon for attachment of a small engine or the like to the engine supports in accordance with the position of bolt holes on the engine or other type of small device.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1987Date of Patent: September 20, 1988Inventors: Ronald J. Dubbs, Richard E. Dubbs
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Patent number: 4770285Abstract: A conveyor device for transferring a workpiece along a conveyor path between work stations located at various positions along the conveyor path includes a pallet for supporting a workpiece which is rotatable and a pallet drive device located at selected work stations along the conveyor path. The pallet drive device is drivingly connectable to the pallet positioned at that work station to rotate the pallet so as to present various portions of the workpiece supported on the pallet to an inspection or manufacturing process.Type: GrantFiled: August 14, 1987Date of Patent: September 13, 1988Inventor: Arthur B. Rhodes
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Patent number: 4768911Abstract: A sample transfer device (10) for manipulating a sample (S) in a pair of sealed vacuum chambers (18, 102) comprises a tubular housing (12) made from a magnetically permeable material. The housing has one closed end (14) and another flanged open end (16) for attachment to the vacuum chamber. Located inside the housing is shaft (40) of a square cross section. One end of the shaft is rotatingly connected to an inner permanent magnet (66) which can rotate with respect to the shaft but moves axially together therewith. The other end of the shaft protrudes from the housing into the vacuum chamber (110). The shaft is supported inside the housing by a bevel gear (32) which rotates in a bearing (20) in the housing. The bevel gear (32) has a square opening (38) which guides the above-mentioned square shaft during its axial movements. The gear (32) engages another gear (98) which is attached to an output shaft of a rotary drive unit (80) having its drive element outside the housing.Type: GrantFiled: September 1, 1987Date of Patent: September 6, 1988Assignee: Huntington Mechanical Laboratories, Inc.Inventor: Valentin Balter
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Patent number: 4767109Abstract: An apparatus for positioning a load or workpiece, the apparatus comprising a support table including a generally planar surface for supporting the workpiece, a first hydraulic motor for moving the table vertically, a second hydraulic motor for rotating the table about a rotational axis generally perpendicular to the surface, a third hydraulic motor for pivoting the table about a pivot axis generally perpendicular to the rotational axis, and a hydraulic pump for supplying fluid to the first, second and third hydraulic motors.Type: GrantFiled: March 26, 1987Date of Patent: August 30, 1988Inventor: Milton F. Raketich
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Patent number: 4717309Abstract: The specimen (P) can be turned about each of three axes (A, B and C) by rtion of the input shaft (10). The apparatus exhibits three brackets (H1, H2, H3) mounted on each other in the manner of a cardan joint and supported by the frame (GR). The first bracket (H1) is fixed on the frame (GR) via a clutch coupling (K1). Additional couplings (K2 and K3) connect the second bracket (H2) to the first bracket (H1) and the third bracket (H3) to the second bracket (H2). Of the three couplings, only one is ever released, while the two others are engaged. In this manner the specimen (P) can describe a movement about each of the three axes by rotation of the single input shaft (10).Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1985Date of Patent: January 5, 1988Assignee: Deutsche Forschungs--und Versuchsanstalt fur Lift--und Raumfahrt E.V.Inventor: Dietmar Neuhaus
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Patent number: 4703922Abstract: A mechanism for raising, rotating and lowering a workpiece from a first secured position to a second secured position with only a rotational input, wherein work operations may be performed on said workpiece in the first and second secured positions, includes dual cam followers extending from the first end of the workpiece for engaging dual camming races to allow the workpiece to first be raised, then rotated and then lowered to a second position. A ball bushing is mounted on the opposite end of the workpiece and pivots in a bushing support to permit the workpiece to rotate about its elongate axis. In an alternative embodiment, two sets of cam followers are provided, one set being mounted at the first end of the workpiece and other set mounted at the opposite end. Both sets of cam followers engage separate dual camming races to rotate the workpiece from a first secured position to a second secured position while remaining in a horizontal position.Type: GrantFiled: December 12, 1986Date of Patent: November 3, 1987Assignee: LTV Aerospace and Defense CompanyInventor: Gene P. Schell
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Patent number: 4662204Abstract: An apparatus is provided for automatically bending tubular materials. The apparatus comprises a bending direction setter which is operative to securely grip a length of tubular material approximately centrally along the length of material. The bending direction setter is operative to rotate the tubular material about its original axis a preselected and carefully controlled amount. The bending apparatus further comprises a pair of automatic benders which are operative to engage the tubing at selected locations on opposed sides of the bending direction setter. The benders are operative to selectively engage the tubing material at a predetermined location therealong and to effect a controlled bend therein. The bending direction setter may rotate the tubular material about its original axis between successive bends carried out by the benders, thereby enabling the tubular material to be bent through three dimensions.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 1986Date of Patent: May 5, 1987Assignee: Usui Kokusai Sangyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Shigeru Saegusa
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Patent number: 4659072Abstract: A knitting machine head extractor for flat knitting machines which permits the easy removal of heavy knitting machine heads while still permitting the operation of the head while still connected electrically to the base for ease of servicing. Knitting machine heads of various widths may be clamped into position and rotated along a horizontal axis. The head may be raised or lowered using a hydraulic or pneumatic pump. A heavy base with easy to operate trolley system, mounted on heavy-duty roller casters permits additional freedom of movement.Type: GrantFiled: April 9, 1984Date of Patent: April 21, 1987Inventor: Roberto De La Rosa
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Patent number: 4655441Abstract: The invention relates to a device for the transverse and/or longitudinal machining of wood workpieces having at least one clamping table which is rotatable or tiltable about at least one pivot axis. The clamping table is connected to a drive gear of a servo drive positioned in the pivot axis. So that the servo drive of the device can also operate free from play during a machining operation, an output gear wheel having front and rear tooth flanks and connected to a servo motor via a drive gear and a sprocket wheel are secured on an output shaft. The sprocket wheel is in engagement with a tension chain which exerts a torque on the output shaft in a predetermined rotational direction, one free end of the tension chain being connected to a controllable fluid cylinder so that in any rotational direction of the servo motor or of the output shaft, either front or rear tooth flanks of the output gear wheel are constantly in contact with corresponding flanks of the drive gear.Type: GrantFiled: November 22, 1985Date of Patent: April 7, 1987Assignee: MZW-Maschinenfabrik Zuckermann Gesellschaft m.b.H.Inventor: Erich Schmidt
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Patent number: 4653739Abstract: A work piece positioning device which has a table upon which the work piece is supported is disclosed. The table is rotatably mounted on a sub-assembly which is tiltably mounted on a frame such that the work piece can be positioned in any desired predetermined attitude. Two worm gear systems are utilized for positioning the table, one for the rotating action and one for the tilting action. Each worm gear system has a worm gear, a tiltable worm and a locking mechanism. Once the table and work piece are in the desired predetermined attitude, the locking mechanisms are actuated, locking each worm to its respective worm gear.Type: GrantFiled: January 23, 1986Date of Patent: March 31, 1987Assignee: Machine Research Company, Inc.Inventor: L. Bruce Moore
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Patent number: 4607578Abstract: A positioning mechanism comprising three pantagraphs supporting a table on a base. Each pantagraph is constructed of four links connected into the form of a quadrilateral. The table is positioned to permit with six degrees of freedom by regulating the angle of inclination of each of the six lower links of the pantagraphs with respect to the base.Type: GrantFiled: June 1, 1984Date of Patent: August 26, 1986Assignee: Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd.Inventors: Hirochika Inoue, Ken-Ich Yoshida, Yasushi Kida, Akira Takemoto
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Patent number: 4579321Abstract: The present invention relates to a positioner for positioning a work piece such as a sheet or plate having first guide rails extending in the direction of the X-axis and second guide rails extending in the direction of the Y-axis, first and second carriages respectively movably supported on said first and second guide rails, clamp support members respectively supported by the first and second carriages and being movable in the direction perpendicular to the direction of the movement of the carriages, and clamping devices mounted to each clamp support member and adapted to clamp the work piece.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1983Date of Patent: April 1, 1986Assignee: U.S. Amada Ltd.Inventor: Susumu Kawano
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Patent number: 4573566Abstract: In a ball screw transfer drive for a transfer machine, first and second carriages are translated by rotation of a ball screw, the ball screw being actuated by a DC electric or other type of variable speed motor through a ball screw drive train. The first carriage is coupled to the ball screw through a first ball nut which is immovably joined to the first carriage and which has threads in engaging relationship with threads of the ball screw. The second carriage is coupled to the ball screw through a second ball nut which is journaled in bearings attached to the second carriage, threads of the second ball nut likewise being in engaging relationship with the ball screw. A power transmission train is mounted between the ball screw and the second ball nut to rotate the second ball nut during a specified rotation of the ball screw to maintain a pre-specified relationship between the speeds of translation of the first and second carriages during the specified ball screw rotation.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 1984Date of Patent: March 4, 1986Assignee: The Cross CompanyInventor: Horst L. Roman