Abstract: A positioning jig includes a holding portion, a contact portion, and an operating portion. The holding portion holds the cartridge. A portion of the contact portion contacts a writing portion of the pen when the cartridge is held in the holding portion and the pen is held in the accommodating portion. The contact portion is able to rotate with a direction in which an axis of the pen extends as a first rotational axis. The operating portion performs an operation to rotate the contact portion. The contact portion restricts rotation of the pen about the first rotational axis with respect to the contact portion by contacting the writing portion of the pen and positions the pen in a rotational direction about the first rotational axis with respect to the cartridge.

Abstract: A linear dividing indexer has an upper table which moves transversely linear relative to a base. The upper table defines a slot disposed at an angle with the transverse direction of movement and includes an indexing mechanism formed from (a) an angle bar pivotally mounted to the base and an actuator bar slidably mounted in the angle bar, the actuating bar having a cam follower which slides within the upper table slot; and (b) wherein when the angle bar is at an angle to the slot, linear movement of the actuating bar within the angle bar causes transverse linear movement of upper table relative to the base.

Abstract: A combination tape measure and marker is provided. The combination tape measure and marker includes a measuring tape housing having a top portion and a front portion. A lever arm is connected to the top portion of the measuring tape housing. A cartridge is integrally attached to the front portion of the measuring tape housing. The lever arm extends through the cartridge. A marker is removably secured within the cartridge and is operationally attached to the lever arm. A spring is housed in the cartridge and provides a retracted and extended position for the marker. The marker is movable separately and independently from the measuring tape housing by selectively depressing the lever arm to lock the marker in an extended position to mark a surface.

Abstract: Printing apparatus for printing an image on a selected surface, includes a print head for printing the image, respective supports for the print head that allow the print head to translate left and right along an x-axis and to translate up and down along a y-axis perpendicular to the x-axis to move the print head over the selected surface, and respective supports for the print head that allow the print head to translate forward and rearward along a z-axis perpendicular to the x-and y-axes and to swing in a plurality of curves from the z-axis in order to adjust the print head for surface variations on the selected surface.

Abstract: A device for locating bowling ball gripping apertures with respect to a bowling ball weight block angle inherent to that particular bowling ball and the track of a particular bowler. One embodiment of the device includes a curved base portion adapted to substantially rest on a curved surface of a bowling ball, the perimeter of the base portion including degree indicators and the center of the base portion including a hole, at least four curved angle indicator arms adapted to substantially rest on a curved surface of the bowling ball, the angle indicator arms including length measurement indicators, the angle indicator arms connected with and extending from the curved base portion, and at least two of the angle indicator arms are adapted to rotate about the center of the curved base portion.

Abstract: A bi-directional slide mechanism. A pair of master and slave disks engages opposite sides of the platform. Rotational drivers are connected to master disks so the disks rotate eccentrically about their respective axes of rotation. Opposing slave disks are connected to master disks on opposite sides of the platform by a circuitous mechanical linkage, or are electronically synchronized together using stepper motors, to effect coordinated motion. The synchronized eccentric motion of the pairs of master/slave disks compels smooth linear motion of the platform forwards and backwards without backlash. The apparatus can be incorporated in a MEMS device.

Abstract: Apparatus for marking a contoured surface having complex topography and preferably with multiple color marking. The apparatus comprises a movable marker for marking the surface and a sensor disposed in sensing relationship to the surface for sensing contour of the surface. A controller interconnecting the marker and the sensor is also provided for actuating the marker and for controllably moving the marker relative to the surface in response to the contour sensed by the sensor, so that the marker follows the contour of the surface at a predetermined distance therefrom and marks the surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for positioning an item that provides two-dimensional, independent orthogonal motion of a platform in a X-Y plane. A pair of master and slave disks engages opposite sides of the platform. Rotational drivers are connected to master disks so the disks rotate eccentrically about axes of rotation. Opposing slave disks are connected to master disks on opposite sides of the platform by a timing belt, or are electronically synchronized together using stepper motors, to effect coordinated motion. The coordinated eccentric motion of the pairs of master/slave disks compels smooth linear motion of the platform in the X-Y plane without backlash. The apparatus can be a planar mechanism implemented in a MEMS device.

Abstract: A body (10) movably supports a holder (20) for movement in a vertical direction. A piezo actuator (40) is sandwiched between the body (10) and the holder (20). Vertical vibrations of the piezo actuator (40) are transmitted to a cutter (30) attached to a lower end portion of the holder (20), so that a scribe line is formed on a workpiece (100). The holder (20) is supported by a resilient member and a slide support portion (60) with the piezo actuator (40) placed therebetween. The resilient member includes a plate spring (61) and a ball (62) made of resilient material. The resilient member resiliently supports the holder (20) in the vibrating directions.

Abstract: A marking machine including a frame, an arm articulated on the frame about an axis of articulation, and a marking tool movably mounted on the arm, The marking tool is movable in translation with respect to the arm.

Abstract: Apparatus for marking a contoured surface having complex topology. The apparatus comprises a movable marker for marking the surface and a sensor disposed in sensing relationship to the surface for sensing contour of the surface. A controller interconnecting the marker and the sensor is also provided for actuating the marker and for controllably moving the marker relative to the surface in response to the contour sensed by the sensor, so that the marker follows the contour of the surface at a predetermined distance therefrom and marks the surface.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for forming decorative patterns in floor coverings. The preferred form of the apparatus includes a marking device having a body member. The body member includes a channel for receiving a guide member. The apparatus further includes a guide member to guide movement of the marking device along a predetermined path. The guide member is flexible so that it can be positioned on floor coverings in various configurations. The marking device includes a marking implement to mark floor coverings as the marking device is moved along the guide member. The preferred method is performed on site, i.e. at the site of the installation. Further, the preferred method is such that it can be performed relatively expeditiously and with great precision. Moreover, the preferred method can be performed with great accuracy without the need for a highly trained artisan.

Abstract: This invention relates to a marking device for making two-dimensional identification signs on the surface of any object, of the type in which the micro-percussion tool is borne axially by a slewable rod which is retained angularly along its axis and which penetrates in a fixed housing through a Universal joint allowing free orientation thereof in all directions along an axis of symmetry, characterized in that orientation of the rod is controlled with the aid of two independent motors which act on one and the other, respectively, of the two orthogonal pivot pins of the joint.

Abstract: A pencil marking device for clipped cloth includes a fixing base, a pencil pedestal, a driving pedestal, a driving source, and at least two sensors, in which the fixing base is fixed on the automatic marking machinery, and the pencil pedestal is connected in it. The tooth ring is formed on the outside of the pencil pedestal. The driving pedestal is installed on one side of the fixing pedestal and is engaged with the tooth ring of the pencil pedestal through an active gear rack for driving the pencil pedestal to rotate at a fix point. The active gear rack is connected with the driving source by an U shape connection and driven to move horizontally by the driving source. The sensors are installed on the ends of the driving pedestal respectively for sensing the moving range of the active gear rack. The range of the horizontal movement of the active gear rack is restricted for driving the pencil in the pencil pedestal to rotate and mark at a fix position, then an automatic pencil marking device is constructed.

Abstract: Disclosed is a marking device, wherein the two telescopic jacks which control orientation of the tool-holder rod are coupled to the wall of the fixed casing with the aid of ball-and-socket joints disposed along the plane transverse to the rod which passes through the centre of the articulated linkage supporting the rod.

Abstract: Marker apparatus for using a marker to make a plurality of different designs on a surface including a design ring mounted rotatably on a base and including a plurality of apertures for receiving the marker and which provide the marker with a plurality of different movements with respect to the marking surface upon rotation of the design ring with respect to the base.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for automatic line width adjustment for engraving characters on a piece of sign material utilizes two cutters sliding by each other in face-to-face opposing relationship. Line width is controlled by controlling the spacing between a pair of cutter tips. The two cutters are moved over a portion of a sign blank while being rotated with the selected spacing between the cutter tips to effect a selected cutting width. The cutters are held in holders and are replaceable when worn out. An internal ratchet-and-pawl mechanism provides fifteen different cutter line widths. The cutter head is moved into engagement with an external pawl mechanism to operate the internal ratchet-and-pawl mechanism.

Abstract: The invention relates to a tridimensional multifunction plotter, comprising a support of a tool which can move with a high precision following a predetermined tridimensional surface.The mobile part of the machine comprises a multifunction head to which several devices like laser distance measuring devices, digital and analogic probes for the surveying and digitizing of a bidimensional and/or tridimensional surface, or tools of various kinds for making a tridimensional model starting from a surface defined through a CAD system.A hardware-software subsystem is provided, parallel connected with the CPU of the machine, to obtain an integrated system which allows a direct connection of the machine with a CAD system so allowing the operator to input the various working parameters directly to the plotter, without the need of an external processing the data file generated by the CAM system, to convert it into a file compatible with the numeric controls of the machine.

Abstract: A three-dimensional drawing device comprising a transparent hollow globe, a powder material disposed within the globe which adheres to the inner surface of the globe, a scribe disposed within the globe which can be used to draw upon the inner surface of the globe by scraping off the powder material, and controls for manipulating the scribe. The device can be used to form three-dimensional sketches and is primarily intended for use as a teaching aid and toy.

Abstract: A protractor including a base having a curved surface formed in an upper portion, a disc including a circular outer peripheral surface for slidable engagement with the curved surface of the base, the disc including an opening, a pair of flanges formed in parallel in the opening, and a slide including two end portions slidably engaged with the flanges of the disc so that the slide can be guided to slide along the flanges, whereby various geometric figures can be drawn by the protractor when the disc rotates relative to the base and when the slide slides along the flanges.

Abstract: A device is provided for supporting an egg-shaped article for adjusted angular displacement about its major dimension center axis and guide structure is provided paralleling the axis and having a follower supported therefrom for movement therealong. A marking instrument is supported from the follower for movement along a path extending toward and away from the axis and intersecting therewith in a plane containing the axis and the marking instrument and follower also include structure for selectively supporting the marking instrument from the follower for movement toward and away from the axis in planes paralleling and spaced equally on opposite sides of the first mentioned plane.

Abstract: A tile cutting table is set forth wherein a support table includes a rear integrally formed abutment ledge provided with side end portions extending outwardly beyond the sides of the table for providing extended support of rigid tile members supported on an upper surface of the table. The cutting and measuring rule is pivotally mounted to a stationary member fixedly secured to an upper surface of the abutment edge by a plurality of hinges with a rod slidably mounted within the hinges. The rule includes a longitudinal and medially aligned slot for receiving a cutting tool therein, wherein the slot is of a width substantially equal to the width of the blade of the cutting tool. The rule may be angularly oriented and repositionable within an arcuate slot to re-orient the rule from five degrees to ninety degrees relative to the support table and abutment ledge. The abutment ledge is spaced above the support surface to accommodate a tile between the rule and the support surface.

Abstract: An apparatus for selectively drawing patterns on paper sheet or scoring patterns on plastic sheet which includes a table support, a sheet feeding assembly at one end of the table support and a sheet collecting assembly at the other end of the table support. A movable tool support carries a drawing instrument and a scoring instrument above the table support and an automatic data controlled system is connected thereto for moving the tool support in any direction to draw on or score the sheet material supported on the table support. The sheet material is advanced by grippers mounted on the movable tool support and spinners are supported on the sheet material at either end of the table support for operating a motor attached to the sheet collecting assembly and a brake attached to the sheet feeding assembly.

Abstract: A system for generating and cutting graphic illustrations from sheets includes a microprocessor with graphics programming with suitable input such as a digital pad connected to a graphics plotter having an adaptor for converting the graphics plotter to a sheet cutter, which includes a scribe holder having the size and configuration of a graphics pen for the plotter for substituting for the pen in the plotter with the scribe holder including a pointed scribe having an omni-directional cutting tip with the ability to cut sheet materials when forced in any direction about its axis.

Abstract: A novel and improved airbrush support and guidance apparatus which permits an airbrush to be held at a uniform standoff distance and at a preselected orientation with respect to a workpiece surface while traversing the workpiece surface in a preselected path of travel including freehand or generally curvilinear paths of travel, as well as, linear, and circular arc paths of travel, while maintaining a uniform standoff and orientation respect to the workpiece surface to provide for increased precision in the rendering of airbrush artwork.

Abstract: A first body part having a rubber rim wheel and a second body part having a rubber rim wheel are interconnected by a vertical hinge. The first body part has a pencil holder between its wheel and the hinge and the wheels have distance measurement scales. An angle measurement scale is provided for the hinge.

Abstract: A device for facilitating the cutting of glass into a plurality of similarly sized shapes, such device comprising a frame member having a longitudinally extending base member which is pivotally mounted on a relatively flat working surface; and affixed at the end of the longitudinally extending base member, which is opposite to the end which is pivotally mounted, is a longitudinally extending connecting bar, disposed generally perpendicular to the base member. Moreover, the upper part of the connecting bar member is affixed to a longitudinal slide member, with the connecting bar and the slide member all lying in the same horizontal plane which is disposed parallel and adjacent the working surface. Integrally affixed into the working surface is a depressed arcuate guide, such arc guide being adapted to receive in sliding fashion therein a portion of the bottom of the slide member.

Abstract: A power tool cutting guide for making plural parallel cuts or arcuate cuts in a workpiece has a member, rotatable within the circular track of a frame, which can be fixed in any angular orientation relative to the workpiece, a guide assembly joined to the rotatable member on which a tool support plate can slide between positionable stops, and a ratchet arm with an attached pawl which engages the serrations in a rack so as to incrementally move a workpiece along a fence. The guide also features a spring-urged retention arm which holds the workpiece firmly against the fence during cutting and means for automatically withdrawing the cutting tool from the workpiece surface upon completion of the cut.

Abstract: A drafting instrument wherein a plate having a circular through opening concentrically arrayed thereabout with calibrated scales and into which a dish having handles is insertable and rotable therein, the drafting instrument being positioned on one face of a sheet to be worked, the dish having a track upstanding from its floor and extending generally along an axis of the dish, a carriage moveable along the track, a plunger being selectively depressible and carried by the carriage, a graphite rod, held by and depending from the plunger extending through an opening of the track, for working engagement with the worksheet.

Abstract: A grooving indexer is provided for use with routing apparatus to improve the capability of the apparatus for rapidly routing straight parallel grooves in cabinet doors and similar panels. The routing apparatus is of the type in which a router is mounted on the end of a bar for extension over a panel to be routed and in which the router can be moved in any direction across the panel by reason of the bar being mounted on a carrier for longitudinal movement in one dimension of the panel, and the carrier being mounted for movement parallel to the other dimension of the panel. The grooving indexer comprises a series of stops adjustable longitudinally of the bar and a pivotal lever on the carriage biased into engagement with the stops to prevent longitudinal movement of the bar unless the lever is tripped.

Abstract: An accessory is provided for use with routing apparatus to facilitate the routing of arcuate designs in cabinet doors and similar panels. The routing apparatus is of the type in which a router is mounted on the end of a bar for extension over a panel to be routed and in which the router can be moved in any direction in a plane parallel to the panel by reason of the bar being mounted in a carrier for longitudinal movement in one dimension of the panel, and the carrier being mounted for movement parallel to the other dimension of the panel. The accessory comprises a radius arm which may be adjustably connected at one end to the bar and is slidably mounted in a pivot block mounted for movement in the same direction as the carriage. An adjustable stop on the radius arm limits its longitudinal movement and an adjustable stop limits movement of the pivot block whereby the router can be guided in a preselected curved path by causing the radius arm to pivot around the pivot block.

Abstract: The following specification discloses a universal guide or pattern for use with a panograph. The panograph can comprise a number of arms that are interconnected at hinge points that support a spindle having a cutting tool for milling or cutting a circular, ornate, or eccentric shape, as well as angles and lines. The spindle with the cutter correspondingly follows the movement of a stylus that overlies the universal pattern that is formed with an arm that guides the stylus in either a two or three dimensional pattern. The pattern is formed in part on a plate having a centrally oriented pin or support post that holds a rotatable arm having a scale thereon. The rotatable arm has a pair of stops that can be set along its length at different locations with respect to the scale. The panograph stylus can be implaced within a stylus holder that moves along the arm between the stops or within the stylus holder that is secured by a set screw.

Abstract: A device for forming reference axes on an image sensor package containing an image sensor array. The device comprises an optical means having a reticle formed therein, a movable table located in a plane parallel with the plane of the optical means, a scribe mounted between the movable table and the optical means and movable in a direction parallel with the reticle.

Abstract: A guide apparatus for a portable tool, such as is used for carving or sculpturing wood. A maulstick is adapted to pivotally support the tool. It has a handle at one side, and is loosely guided by a post at its opposite side. The center portion of the maulstick includes an offset yoke that movably supports the portable tool. A support table has a turntable for holding a workpiece engaged by peripheral clamps.

Abstract: Apparatus for marking eggs comprising parallel upstanding brace members fixed to a horizontal base; a rotatable element rotating in one of said brace members and operable to engage one end of an egg; another member yieldably urged against another end of the egg and operable to allow rotation of the egg with respect to the end of that member; a disc member fixed to said rotatable member; apertures near the peripheral edge of the disc member operable to pass over a corresponding aperture in said first brace member; a pin operable to pass through one of the apertures in said disc member therethrough into said corresponding aperture in said first brace member; a metal straight edge guide above and substantially parallel to the axis of the egg and substantially rigid; a sliding member operable to slide on said straight edge member along a line parallel to the central axis of the egg; an aperture vertically deposed in said slide member operable to hold a pencil; and a weight member having a central axis and an aper