US1906867A - Means for automatically cutting flexible shafting - Google Patents

Means for automatically cutting flexible shafting Download PDF

Info

Publication number
US1906867A
US1906867A US50189530A US1906867A US 1906867 A US1906867 A US 1906867A US 50189530 A US50189530 A US 50189530A US 1906867 A US1906867 A US 1906867A
Authority
US
United States
Prior art keywords
shafting
flexible
carriage
flexible shafting
cam
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
Inventor
Louis H Morin
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Individual
Original Assignee
Individual
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Individual filed Critical Individual
Priority to US50189530 priority Critical patent/US1906867A/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of US1906867A publication Critical patent/US1906867A/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

Links

Images

Classifications

    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B21—MECHANICAL METAL-WORKING WITHOUT ESSENTIALLY REMOVING MATERIAL; PUNCHING METAL
    • B21F—WORKING OR PROCESSING OF METAL WIRE
    • B21F11/00—Cutting wire
    • Y—GENERAL TAGGING OF NEW TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS; GENERAL TAGGING OF CROSS-SECTIONAL TECHNOLOGIES SPANNING OVER SEVERAL SECTIONS OF THE IPC; TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC CROSS-REFERENCE ART COLLECTIONS [XRACs] AND DIGESTS
    • Y10—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER USPC
    • Y10T—TECHNICAL SUBJECTS COVERED BY FORMER US CLASSIFICATION
    • Y10T83/00—Cutting
    • Y10T83/869—Means to drive or to guide tool
    • Y10T83/8772—One tool edge of tool pair encompasses work [e.g., wire cutter]

Definitions

  • the greater portion of flexible shafting of the type formed by winding one or more layers of wire about a core wire or mandrel, is used in standardized equipment such, for
  • One of the advantages of the device of my invention is the fact that it is adapted to sever flexible shafting into pieces of predetermined length as the shafting is fabricated on a flexible shaft making machine.
  • the flexible shafting fabricated on the flexible shaft making machine may be fed through the device by the feeders of the 2e flexible shaft making machine.
  • the device is provided with a cutting element which when actuated severs flexible shafting passing through the device. Actuation of the cutting element of the device is controlled automatically in accordance with predetermined movement of the flexible shafting.
  • wires making up flexible shafting of the type referred to when the shafting is severed at any point along its length, have a 3G tendency to unwind or uncurl and slip longitudinally which is troublesome in practice because it interferes with placing couplings or terminals on the ends formed by ⁇ severing the shafting.
  • I provide a device for cutting flexible shafting in which the cutting element is mounted on a movable carriage.
  • the carriage operating mechanism is adapted to e5 be connected through a clutch mechanism to a source of power or to the operating mechanism of a flexible shaft making machine.
  • the clutch mechanism is controlled by a solenoid to connect the operating mechanism of the carriage to the source of power for driving the operating mechanism of the carriage.
  • Energization of the solenoid is controlled by the flexible shafting passing through the device. rlhe shafting passes between two members which form a guide for the shafting and in which there is an adjustable abutment.
  • the abutment constitutes an electrical contact member, and it makes an electrical contact with the end of the flexible shafting passing through the device, when the end of 6othe shafting touches the abutment.
  • the electrical connection between the flexible shafting and the contactor on the abutment completes a circuit to the solenoid for operating the aforementioned clutch, and the solenoid c5 actuates the clutch to connect the carriage operating' mechanism to the source of power. rlhe carriage then moves along ⁇ with the flexible shafting, and when it reaches approximately the end of ⁇ its travel, the cutting element ⁇ is actuated to cut the shafting.
  • the contactors On either side of the cutting element there are electrical contact members mounted on the carriage. These contact members are adapted to make electrical contact with shafting passing through the device, and in order to insure good electrical contact, the contactors are made to grip the flexible shafting as the carriage starts traveling in the direction of movement of the flexible shafting. After 8o these contactors grip the flexible shafting, an electric circuit is completed to energize contactors so that a current of electricity flows between the contactors, through the flexible shafting. The current flowing through the flexible shafting between the contactors is of sufficient strength to heat the flexible shafting and raise the temperature thereof high enough to set the wires forming the layers which constitute the flexible shafting.
  • the current flowing through the flexible shafting between the contactors is of sufficient strength to heat the flexible shafting and raise the temperature thereof high enough to set the wires forming the layers which constitute the flexible shafting.
  • carriage is made to travel slightly faster than the flexible shafting and the gripping action of the contactor behind the cutting element, relative to the direction of movement of the carriage, loosely grips the flexible shafting so that it may slip therein to take up the increase in length of the portion of the flexible shafting between the contactors caused by the expansion of the shafting when it is heated.
  • the contactors are actuated to release the flexible shafting, the carriage is returned to its original position, and the clutch is actuated to disengage the carriage operating mechanism from the source of power.
  • the piece of shafting that is cut is removed from the device and the end formed by severing the shafting proceeds along the guideway to abut against, and make electrical contact with the abutment contactor to start again the cycle of operation just described.
  • the abutment contactor is adjustable to vary the length of the pieces of flexible shaftin g severed by the device.
  • the clutch for connecting the carriage operating means to the source of power is also adjustable to vary the length of the pieces of flexible Shafting severed by the device.
  • the former adjustment is a rough adjustment, the latter being a fine adjustment.
  • Fig. 1 is a partial sectional elevation of a device which embodies my invention
  • Fig. 2 is a plan of the same
  • Fig. 3 is an enlarged fragmentary plan, partly in section
  • Fig. 4 is a transverse section taken on the line 4 4 of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 5 is an enlarged' fragmentary section taken on the line 5-5 of Fig. 2; l
  • Fig. 6 is a transverse section of the clutch mechanism taken on the line 66 of Fig. 1;
  • FIG 7 is an end view of the clutch mechamsm taken on the line 7-7 of Fig. 1;
  • Fig. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional elevation of the clutch mechanism
  • Fig. 9 is a longitudinal elevation of one of the parts of the clutch mechanism
  • Fig. 10 is a section of the same taken on the line 10-10 of Fig. 9;
  • Fig. 11 is a longitudinal section of another element of the clutch mechanism
  • Fig. 12 is an end elevation of the same
  • Fig. 13 is a transverse section taken on the irregular line 13-13 of Fig. 2;
  • Fig. 14 is a transverse section taken on the line 14-14 of Fig. 2.
  • the cutting element consists of a knife 1 carried by a holder to which it is secured by means of pins 3.
  • the holder is slidably mounted within a casing, and extends beyond the casing at both ends, the extended end having downwardly extending projections i on which cam followers 4a and il?) are mounted which cooperate with cams to actuate the lrnife in a manner which will hereinafter appear.
  • At the center of the side walls 5 of the casing there are aligned openings through which flexible shafting may pass.
  • the opening in the side wall to the rear of the knife, relative to the direction of movement of flexible shafting through the device is provided with a bushing 6 in which the flexible shafting lits snugly.
  • rlhe knife is carried by the holder in contact with the inner surface of the wall in which the bushing 6 is placed; and the knife is adapted to shear the flexible shafting at the point at which it extends through the bushing.
  • r1 ⁇ he cutting element described above is mounted upon a movable carriage 7 which is adapted to move longitudinally of the device.
  • This carriage has; on either side thereof, flanges 8 which extend into channel-shaped grooves formed in the side frame members 9.
  • rlhe grooves are formed in the side; frame members by cutting angular grooves in upper inwardly extending flanges 10 of the frame members and securing a plate 11 to the top of each of the frame members which plate extends out over the angular groove in the flanges and forms the upper side of the channel-shaped grooves; the plates being secured to the tops of the frame members b v machine screws 12.
  • These channel-shaped grooves serve as guides, the frame members supporting, and the grooves guiding the carriage.
  • the cylindrical cam 16 is mounted within the frame of the device and is rotated through an annular gear 17 within the cam near the rear thereof and secured against a shoulder formed on the inner surface of the cam by means of machine screws 18. Between this annular gear and the rear end of the cylindrical cam there is a segment 19 carrying a brake shoe 20 which engages the inner surface of the cam.
  • the segment 19 has a rectangular opening therethrough at the center thereof which fits over a rectangular projection 21 extendingy from the forward, end frame member 22. ln the lower side of thev projection 21; there is a recess 23 which forms a housing for a spring 24 that acts between the projection and the segment to cllcct the pressure with which the brake shoe is applied to the inner surface of the drum. rl ⁇ he brake shoe prevents the cam from rotating loosely and serves to take up back-lash in the train of gears through which the cam is driven, which train of gears will now be described.
  • an idler pinion 25 which is rotatably mounted upon a. shaft 26 extending through the gear, end frame member 22.
  • the pinion y25 meshes with another pinion 27 secured on a shaft 28 which extends between, and is journalled in the forward, end frame member 22 and an inwardly extending projection 3() formed on the rear, end frame member 3l.
  • the shaft 28 has an enlarged portion intermediate its ends which is journalled in a bearing formed in a radial, inwardly extending bracket 32 formed on the cylindrical cam through which bracket the shaft supports the cylindrical cam.
  • the cam is also rotatably supported by a. ledge 33 formed on the rear, end frame member 31.
  • Thrust bearings 34 are provided on either side of the bearing bracket 32 to absorb the longitudinal forces acting on the cylindrical cam in moving the carriage.
  • Actuation of the clutch mechanism to conneet the carriage operating mechanism to the source of power is controlled by a solenoid which is energized when the end of the flexible shafti-ng passing through the device makes an electrical contact with an abutment in the path thereof.
  • the abutment in the path of the flexible shafting is positioned between two angle members 39, flanges of which are arranged in parallel to form a channel 40 through which flexible shafting entering the device passes.
  • the ends of the angle members removed from the frame are supported by a standard 41 on the top of which there is a frame 42 having upwardly extending parallel flanges 43.
  • channel members 44 Securedto the opposed surfaces of the flanges of the frame 42, there are channel members 44, the webs of the channel members being secured to the sides of the flanges by screws 45.
  • These channel members constitute tracks for rollers 46 mounted on the ends of a shaft 47.
  • a shaft 47 Upon this shaft, there are mounted two members 48 which support therebetween a plate 49 which is secured to the members by machine screws 50, the members 48 being secured to the shaft by set screws 5l.
  • This plate 49 supports the free ends of the angle members and is mounted for movement longitudinally of the angle memers so that angle members of varying lengths may be used.
  • the angle members are spaced apart by bars 52 which are secured in place by bolts 53.
  • an abutment 54 In the channel 40 formed by the angle members there is an abutment 54.
  • the abutment has an overhanging portion 55 which overhangs the side of one of the angle members and which is provided with thumb screws 56 by means of which the abutment may be secured in any position in the channel formed by the angle members.
  • the end of the flexible shafting passing through the channel formed by the angle members will abut against this abutment which carries an electrical contact member 57 which is adapted to make electric contact with flexible shafting striking the abutment.
  • Insulation 58 on either side of the contactor prevents the contactor from through a rod 60 and lever 61, the clutch .f
  • the clutch mechanism used is shown in Figs. l and 6- to l2 inclusive and comprises a pawl 62 and rachet 63.
  • the ratchet 63 consists of a cylinder having teeth formed in the inner surface thereof. This ratchet also con,- stitutes the casing of the clutch and is mounted upon a cylinder 64 which is keyed on the end of the shaft 37 extending through the rear, end frame member.
  • the cylindrical ratchet is mounted on the cylinder 64 through annuli 65 which surround the cylinder 64 adjacent the ends thereof.
  • the teeth of the ratchet extend between the annuli, adjacent the outer periphery of the cylinder 64, the ratchet having flanges 66 and 67 on either side of the toothed portion which extend over the annuli and which are secured to the annulus by means of machine screws 68.
  • semi-circular groove 69 is cut in the periphery of the cylinder 64 longitudinally thereof. and in this groove the pawl 62 is mounted.
  • the pawl consists of a pin which is adapted to fit in the groove formed in the periphery of the cylinder 64. Intermediate the ends. a distance equal to the length of the teeth in the ratchet, the pawl is semi-circular in cross section as shown in Figs. 9 and 10. At one end the pawl has a radially extending projection 70 which extends through a groove 7l in the end of the cylinder 64, and at the opposite end the pawl has a groove 72 formed therein.
  • the laterally extending projection 7 0 formed on the opposite end of the pawl has a tapered hole therethrough which is adapted to receive and engage a tapered spring 74 that is secured at its free end to a pin 75 secured in the ratchet 63.
  • the force of this spring acts to turn the p21-wl in the semi-circular groove 69 in the cylinder 64-so that the edge of the semi-circular portion of the pawl extends between successive teeth of the ratchet and engages a tooth of the ratchet. Y When this occurs the ratchet and the shaft 37 are connected through the pawl.
  • the projection on the pawl extends beyond the casing of the clutch, and is adapted to be engaged by a stationary projection 76 that extends into the path of the projection 70 on the pawl.
  • the stationary proj ection 76 opposes the action of the spring 74, and maintains the pawl in the position shown in Figs. 6 and 7, that is, out of engagement with the teeth of the ratchet.
  • the projection 76 is formed on a hub 77 that fits over the tapered end of a shaft 7 8 which extends through the rear, en dframe member and is slidably mounted therein.
  • the lever 61 is pivoted between its ends and is bifurcated at both ends. At one end the rod 60 extending from the solenoid 59 is secured between the arms of the bifurcated portion. At the opposite end, the arms of the bifurcated portion extend partially around the shaft 78 and are adapted to engage the hub 77 of the stationary projection 76.
  • the shaft 78 carrying the hub 77 is held against rotation by a projection 81 extending into a groove in the lever.
  • the ratchet is connected to the source of power through a shaft 82 formed integral with a cap 83 which is threaded in the flange 67 extending from the ratchet.
  • This cap has upon the inner end thereof gear teeth 8st which engage a worm gear 85 journaled in the flange 67 of the ratchet.
  • this worm gear 85 which extends through the fiange 67 and as a squared end 86, the can 83 may be moved relative to the flange of the ratchet to change the relation between the cap and the ratchet and vary the length of the shafting cut by the device, as will hereinafter appear.
  • the cam followers ia and 4b cooperate with the cams 87, 88 and 89 secured to the upper surface of the side frame members 9 to move the knife in the casing, the cam la cooperating with the cams 87 and 88 and the cani follower 4]) cooperating with the cani 89.
  • the am 89 maintains the knife in the position shown in Fig. 8 during approximately one half of the forward movement of the carriage until the cam follower en, engags the cam 87.
  • the engaging surface of the cam 87 is, as shown,- inclined to the line of movement of the carriage and forces the knife holder to slide within the casing, causing the knife to traverse the path of the fiexible shafting passing through the casing, and shear the fiexible shafting.
  • the surface of the cam 89 is out away at this point to permit the movement of the knife within its casing and to traverse the path of the fiexible shafting.
  • the knife holder is moved in the opposite direction by the cooperation of the surface of the cam 89 which is inclined to the line of movement of the carriage oppositely to the inclination of the surface of the cam 87.
  • the wires making up the layers of the flexible shafting are heated over a portion of the shafting which includes the point at which the flexible shafting is to be cut.
  • the flexible shafting is heated by passing a current of electricity through a portion of the shafting and for this purpose there is mounted on the cariage, on either side of the cutting element, a pair of jaws which are adapted to rlhe inclined surface of the cam 89 isl grip the flexible shafting passing through the device and make electrical contact therewith.
  • Each pair of jaws includes a stationary aws which is secured to the carriage by a bolt 91 which extends through a slot 92 in the carriage and through the opening provided therefor in the jaw.
  • the stationary jaws are also provided with integral connectors 93 to which an electrical cable or wire 94 is adapted to be electrically connected.
  • the movable jaw 95 of each pair of jaws is pivotally secured to the stationary jaw by a pin 96 extending through a projection on the movable jaw and the arms of a bifurcated portion of the stationary jaw between which the projection on the movable jaw extends.
  • the stationary j aw is also provided with a projection 97 that is adapted to engage the upper portion of the movable jaw and limit the extent the movable jaw may be moved in a direction to open the jaws.
  • the upper portions of the movable jaws are bifurcat-ed as clearly shown in Fig.
  • rods 98 extending laterally in opposite directions from the ends of the arms of a yoke 99.
  • the rods are electrically insulated from the movable jaws by fiber sleeves 100 which surround the rods 98.
  • the jaws are actuated to grip and release the flexible shafting to make electrical contact therewith.
  • the top 101 of the casing in which the knife holder 2 is mounted has a portion 101@ thereof of greater thickness than the remainder.
  • the portion 101@ has a recess in its lower face substantially at the transverse center of the casing in which recess there is placed a cup-shaped member 102 which presses against the upper edge of the knife holder under the action of a convolute spring 103 within the member 102.
  • the upper surface of the portion 101@ of the casing is grooved longitudinally thereof to receive a plate 104 which is slidably mounted in the groove and which is held in the groove by a cover plate 105.
  • the plate 104 has a shoulder 106 formed on the upper surface thereof which is adapted to abut against the .edge of the cover plate 105 and there is a spring 107 acting to maintain the shoulder 106 of the plate 104 against the end of the cover plate.
  • This spring is secured at one end to a pin 108 extending from the cover plate and at the other end to a bolt 109 which extends through the slidable plate and supports a cam follower 110 against the lower side of the movable plate.
  • the aforementioned yoke 99 is slidably mounted on the eyebolt.
  • the yoke is held against the head of the eyebolt by means of a spring 113 surrounding the eyebolt and acting between nuts 114 on the end of the bolt and the yoke.
  • rflic cam follower 110 cooperates with a cam 115 carried on the end of one arm of a Jell crank lever 116.
  • the bell crank lever 116 is pivotally mounted on a pin 117 .extending from the upper surface of the side frame member 9 and has a projection 118 which is adapted to abut against a pin 119 when the cam 115 is in position to cooperate with the cam follower 110, to which position the bell crank lever is resiliently urged by a spring 120.
  • the cam 115 has a pair of parallel cam surfaces which are inclined to the line of movement of the carriage, and as the carriage starts moving, the cam follower 110 engages the rear face of the cam, relative to the direction of movement of the flexible shafting.
  • the movable plate 104 As the follower 110 rides along the inclined surface of the cam, the movable plate 104 is moved to the left, as seen in Fig. 5, against the action of the spring 107. Movement of the plate 104 moves the yoke 99 and causes the rods 98 to close the j aws which grip the fiexible shafting and make electrical contact therewith. The pressure with which the flexible shafting is gripped between the jaws is determined by the force of the spring 113 acting between the yoke and the nuts on the eyebolt.
  • the plate 104 is held in its outermost position when moved thereto by a pawl 121 which is pivotally mounted in an opening through thetop 101 of the knife holder casing and which engages a shoulder 122 formed in the' lower surface of the plate.
  • the pawl is pivoted between its ends and there is a spring 123 housed in a recess which acts upon the pawl, urging it to rotate about its pivot so that one end of the pawl, which is squared, presses against the lower surface of the plate and engages the shoulder formed in the plate when it is moved beyond the end of ther pawl.
  • the other end of the pawl which is rounded, extends into a recess in the top of the knife holder when the pawl engages the shoulder on the plate 104.
  • the ends 124 of the recess in the top of the knife holder are inclined and act as cams, the rounded end of the pawl acting as a cam follower.
  • the knife holder is subsequently actuated, as hereinbefore explained, to shear the flexible shafting, the inclined side 124 of the recess in the knife holder acts upon the rounded end of the pawl, rotating the pawl about its pivot against the action of the spring 123 to release the plate 104.
  • the plate 104 is then returned, by the spring 107, to its initial position to open the jaws and release the flexible shafting.
  • the cam follower 110 engages the forward cam surface of the cam 115 and turns the lever 116 about its pivot so that the cam follower may pass the cam.
  • a bell crank lever 125 On the rear, end frame member, there is a bell crank lever 125 which is pivotally connected to the frame member.
  • the bell crank lever carries a cam follower 126 which abuts against the edge of the cylindrical cam.
  • This lever also carries a switch contacter 127 which is insulated therefrom and cooperates with a stationary contact 128 to make and break a circuit to a transformer 129 which is secured to the carriage and furnishes current to the jaws.
  • the cam follower' 126 on the bell crank lever is held against the edge of the cylindrical cam by a spring 130 and a cam 131 on the edge of the cylindrical cam determines the action ⁇ of the switch.
  • This cam is designed so that as the carriage moves and the flexible shafting passing therethrough is gripped between the jaws the switch is closed, closing the circuit to the transformer which energizes the jaws so that a current of electricity passes between the jaws, through the flexible shafting.
  • the current passing through the flexible shafting heats the flexible shafting sufficiently to set the wires forming the layers of the flexible shafting so that when the flexible shafting is cut by the action of the cutting element the wires making up the flexible shafting will not unravel or unwind.
  • the bolts securing the stationary part of the jaws in place pass through slots in the carriage, as hereinbefore described, so that the distance between the jaws on either side of the cutting element may be varied to increase or decrease the length of sha-fting through which the current passes, and thereby regulate the temperature to which the flexible shafting is raised by the current passing therethrough.
  • the clutch mechanism is actuated to disconnect the carriage operating mechanism from the source of power.
  • the shaft 78 is moved by the solenoid to permit the pawl of the clutch to engage the ratchet it is held in the position to which it is moved by the solenoid by a bell crank lever 132 pivotally mounted on the rear, end frame member 30 within the cylindrical cam.
  • a roller 133 On the end of one arm of the bell crank lever 132 there is a roller 133 which engages the inner surface of the cylindrical cam.
  • the other arm of the bell crank lever extends transversely to the shaft 78 which carries the stationary projection 76 that engages the projection 7 0 on the pawl of the clutch, and it is adapted to frictionaily engage the shaft 78.
  • the plate is secured to a flange of one of the angle members by bolts 138 extending through slots 139 formed in t-he plate.
  • the slots 139 are inclined to the plane of the channel 40 and rollers 140 on the bolts 138 engage the sides of the slots, so that the plate may slide relative to the angle members.
  • T he end of the plate adjacent the carriage of the device is also inclined to the plane of the channel 40, and the carriage carries aprojection 141 having an inclined end which is adapted to engage the inclined edge of the plate.
  • the plate in this way,'is moved beyond the channel and the'piece of flexible shafting, severed by the action of the cutting element, drops through the bottom of the channel to the fioor.
  • the angle members 39 are held from moving with the plate by a bracket 142 to which they are secured and which in turn is secured to the frame by the pin 143 extending through a projection 144 on the bracket and a bifurcated end portion of the frame of the device.
  • This bar passes through a groove formed in a bracket 148 which is pivotally secured between the arms of a bifurcated extension 149 on the side frame member by means of a pin 150.
  • To the side of this bracket there is resiliently secured a plate 151 which presses against the surface of the bar 148 passing through the groove in the bracket.
  • the plate 151 is secured to the bracket by means of bolts 152,
  • This plate151 acts as a brake to insure even action of the plate 137, which is returned to its original position beneath the channel et() by a spring.
  • the operation of the devicey is as follows: Assuming that the device is to'be operated in conjunction with a flexible shaftmaking mag chine it willl be arranged adjacent the end of the flexible shaft making machine at which the fabricated shafting leaves the machine.
  • the shaft 82 of the clutch will be connected to one of the shafts of the flexibleshafft making machine.
  • the flexible shafting made by the machine will be fed by the feeders of the machine through the openings in the sides 5 of the casing ofthe cutting element, across the stationary jaws on either side of the cutting' element, and into the channel l0 formed by the angle members 39.
  • the pawl As the stationary pro'- jection is moved out of contact with the projection extending from the pawl of the clutch, the pawl is rotated by the action of the spring 74 and engages a, tooth of the ratchet which is continually rotated through the shaft 82 and the cap 83. Engagement of the ratchet by the pawl connects the shaft 82 to the 'shaft 37 and causes the latter to rotate. Rotation of the shaft 37 is transmitted through the angular gear 35, shaft 28, pinion 27', idler pinion 25, and the angular' gear 17 to the cylindrical cam. The back-lash in the train of gears is taken up before the cam start-s to rotate by virtue of the brake shoe 2O which presses against the inner surface of the cylindrical cam. As the cam rotates, the cam follower 15 follows the groove inthe cylindrical cam and moves the ⁇ carriage 7 longitudinally thereof.
  • Movement of the carriage causes the cam follower 110, on the movable plate 1011, to engage the cam 115, on the bell crank lever 116, which movesthe cam follower and the plate 1011.
  • movement of the plate causes movement of the movable jaws to grip the flexible shafting between they movable andv stationary jaws.
  • the bell crank lever 125 is actuatedv tov close the switch, thereby closing thecircuit to the transformer 129 which energizes the gripping jaws to cause aicurrent of electricity to pass between that portion.
  • the bell crank lever 125 is actuated to open the circuit to the transformer, and when the knife moves to cut the flexible shaft-ing, the pawl 121 is actuated to release the slidable plate 104; and permit the spring 107 to open the jaws, and release the flexible shafting.
  • the inclined edge of the projection 141 engages the inclined edge ofthe plate 137 forming the base of the channel 410, and moves the plate, by virtue of the inclined surfaces and inclined slots 139, transversely. to the plane of the channel 40. l/Vhen the shafting is cut, the plate 140 is out of the plane of the channel 40, permitting the severed piece of shafting to fall on to the floor.
  • the cam follower 4J ofthe knife holder 2 engages the inclined surface of the cam 89, which moves the knife holder in the opposite direction.
  • This cam moves the knife holder sufliciently to cause the cam follower la, on the return of the carriage, to pass behind the cam block 37.
  • the cam follower on the movable plate 140 engages the forward inclined surface of the cam 115 on the bell crank lever 116 and swings the bell crank lever .so that the cam follower of the movable plate may pass the cam.
  • the cam follower on the knife holder engages the inclined surface of the cam 88 and the knife holder is returned to its initial position.
  • the return movement of the carriage also permits the plate 137 to assume its initial position beneath the channel Ll0.
  • the head 135 of the bolt 136 engages' the sei roller 133, on the bell crank lever 132, actuating the bell crank lever to release the shaft T 8 Which is returned to its initial position under the action of the spring 79.
  • the projection 70 extending from the pavvl of the ratchet, engages the stationary projection 76, which is now in the path of the projection 70, the paWl is turned and the engagement between the pawl Vand the ratchet is broken.
  • the length of the piece of flexible shafting cut may be varied by moving the abutment in the channel. rlhis movement of the abutment roughly determines tlie length of the pieces of flexible shafting to be cut. By turning the Worm S5 in the clutch, a fine adjustment in the length of the flexible shafting to be cut, may be had.
  • a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length
  • a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length and a cutting element
  • a cutting element comprising a casing havingy openings through the sides thereof through which flexible shafting is adapted to pass, a knife Within the casing. and means for moving the knife Within the easing transverse to the path of' the flexible shafting through the casing.
  • a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length and a cutting element comprising a casing having openings through the sides thereof through which flexible sliafting is adapted to pass, a knife Within the casing slidably mounted against one side thereof, and means for moving the knife across the path of the flexible shafting.
  • a carriage In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length, a carriage, means for cutting flexible shafting carried by said carriage, means for gripping flexible shafting passing through the device on either side of said cutting means, electrical connections to said gripping means, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing said gripping means to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, means for energizing said gripping means, and means for actuating said cutting means.
  • a carriage means for cutting flexible shaftiiig carried by said carriage, means for gripping flexible shafting passing through the device on either side of said cutting means, electrical lconnections to said gripping means, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing said gripping means to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, means for energizing said gripping means, means for actuating said cutting means, means for releasing said gripping means, and means for returning the carriage to its initial position.
  • a carriage means for cutting flexible sliafting carried by said cai'riage, means for gripping flexible shafting passing through the device on either side of said cutting means, electrical connections to said gripping means, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing said gripping means to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, means for energizing said gripping means, means for actuating said cutting means, means actuated by the movement of said cutting means for releasing said gripping means, and means for returning the carriage to its initial position.
  • a carriage means for cutting flexible shafting carried by said carriage, means for gripping flexible shafting passing through the device on either side of said cutting means, electrical connections to said gripping means, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing said gripping means to grip flexible shaftingypassing thro-ugh lthe device, electrical connections to the gripping means,
  • Vmeans for energizing the gripping means to ,flexible shafting so that it may slip therethrough to take up expansion of the flexible shafting means for actuating said cutting mea-ns, means actuated by the movement of ⁇ said cutting vmeans vfor releasing said cutting means, and means for retu-rning the carriage to its initial position.
  • a carriage In a device for cutting .flexible shafting into pieces of predetermined length, a carriage, a knife carried by the carriage for cutting flexible shafting, a pair of jaws on either side of the knife, means for guiding .flexible shafting transversely to the knife and between the jaws of each of said pairs of jaws, electrical connections to said jaws, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing tthrough'the-device, at a speed slightly greater than the speed .of 1flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing the awson either side ofthe knife to grip flexible shafting lpassing' through the device and ⁇ make electrical connection therewith, the
  • a cutting device for cutting flexible shafting adapted tocut shafting continuously 4fed thereto, means for heating a portion of the flexible shaft at the point at which the shaft is to be cut comprising a pair of jaws adapted to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, a second pair of jaws spaced from said rst pair of jaws, means for causing each of said pairs of j aws to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, electrical connections to each of said pairs of jaws, means for energizing each of said pairs of jaws to cause a current of electricity ⁇ to flow between the two pairs of jaws through the flexible shafting, and means for movingfboth pairs of jaws in unison at a speed slightly greater than the speed of movement of the flexible shafting, the pair of aws to the rear l relative to the direction of movement of the flexible shafting loosely gripping the shafting so that it may slip therein to take up the increase in length of the portion of the shafting between the two pairs of jaws due ing, a cutting
  • a carriage having ,a cutting element thereon aiidmeans for heating a ortionof flexible shaftiiig passing through Ythe, device at the point at which it isto becut, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, meansl actuated by movement of the carriage for controlling the operation of the heating meansand the eut- ⁇ ting element, and means responsive to preiio determined movements of the shafting for controlling the carriage actuating means.
  • a. carriage having a cutting element thereon and means for heating al portion of flexible shafting passing through the device at the point at which it is to be cut, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means actuated by movement of the carriage for controlling the operation of the heating means and the cutting element, a clutch adapted to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, and means responsive to predetermined movements of the shafting controlling the operation of the clutch to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power.
  • a carriage having a cutting element thereon and means for heating a portion of flexible shafting passing through the device at the point at which it is to be cut, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means actuated by movement of the carriage for controlling the operation of the heating means and the cutting element, a clutch adapted to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, means responsive to predetermined movements of the shafting for controlling the operation of the clutch to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, and means operated by the carriage operating means for controlling the operation of the clutch to disconnect the carriage operating means from the source of power.
  • a carriage having a cutting element thereon and means for heating a portion of flexible shafting passing'through the device at the point at which it is to be out, means for ymovin g the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means actuated by movement of the carriage for controlling the operation of the heating means and the cutting element, a clutch adapted to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, means responsive to predetermined movements ofthe shafting for controlling the operation of the clutch to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, means operated by the carriage operating means for controlling the operation of the clutch to disconnect the carriage operating means from the source of power, and means for adjusting the clutch to vary the length of flexible shafting severedv by the cutting means.
  • a device for cuttingl flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length comprising means for cutting flexible shaftmg, means actuated 1n accordance with the and means movable with the flexible shafting for acting on the shafting to set the wires making up the shafting to prevent the unraveling thereof over a portion of the shafting at thepoint at which it is to be cut.
  • a carriage In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length, a carriage, means for cutting flexible shafting carried by the carriage, means carried by said carriage for setting the wires making up the shafting to prevent the unraveling thereof over a portion of the shafting at the point it is to be cut, and means for moving the carriage in thel direction of movement of the flexible shafting passing through the device while said setting means is acting 011 the shafting.
  • a carriage means for cutting the flexible shafting carried by said carriage, electrical contact elements carried by said carriage, one on either side'of said cutting means adapted to makeelectrical contact with the flexible shafting, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for energizing saidv contact elements during movement of the carriage, and means for actuating the cutting means.
  • a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto, means for setting the wires making up the shafting to prevent the unraveling thereof over a portion of the flexible shaft at the point at which the shaft is to be cut, and means for moving the setting means, in accordance with the speed of movement ofthe flexible shaft during the time said setting means is acting.
  • means for setting the wires making up the sh afting Vto prevent the unraveling thereof over a portion of the shafting at the point at which the shaft is to be cut comprising means for heating a portion of .the shafti ng, and means for moving said heating means in accordance with the speed of movement of the shafting.

Landscapes

  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • Control Of Cutting Processes (AREA)

Description

L. H. MORIN May 2, 1933.
MEANS FOR AUTOMATICALLY CUTTING FLEXIBLE SHAFTING Filed Dec. 12 1930 5 Sheets-Sheet 1 L. H. MORIN May 2, 1933.
MEANS FOR AUTOMATICALLY CUTTING FLEXIBLE SHFTING Filed Dec. 12, 1930 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 I May 29 m33, L. H. MQRHN m 'MEANS FOR UTOMATCALLY CUTTING FLEXIBLE SHAFTING Filed Deca l2, 1930 5 Sheets-Sheet C5 INVENTOR 0a/5 ff. Maf/M WMM ATTORNEY May 2, 1933., L.. H. MORIN 1,906,867
MEANS FOR AUTOMATICALLY CUTTING FLEXIBLE SHAFTING Filed Dec. 12, 1930 5 sheets-sheet 4 ma i7 iNvENToR 0d/S h. MUR/A4 BYMOW ATTORNEY May 2, 1933- I L. H. MORIN 1,906,867
MEANS FOR AUTOMATICALLY CUTTING FLEXIBLE SHAFTING Filed Dec. 12, 1930 5 Sheets-Sheet 5 INVENTOR ZI//S H. MOF/M www ATTORNEY Patented May 2,A 1933 ATEN OFFICE LOUIS H. MORIN, OF NEW YORK, N. Y.
MEANS FOR AUTOMATICALLY CUTTING- FLEXIBLE ySI-Il-XFTIITC-l- Application filed December 12,- 1930. Serial No. 501,895.
The greater portion of flexible shafting, of the type formed by winding one or more layers of wire about a core wire or mandrel, is used in standardized equipment such, for
example, as speedometers, dental apparatus and the like, which utilize a piece of flexible shafting of definite length. The flexible shafting is, however, fabricated continuously, and, therefore, must be severed into pieces,
l0 the lengths of which are suitable for the apparatus in which the shafting is to be used.
One of the advantages of the device of my invention is the fact that it is adapted to sever flexible shafting into pieces of predetermined length as the shafting is fabricated on a flexible shaft making machine. The flexible shafting fabricated on the flexible shaft making machine may be fed through the device by the feeders of the 2e flexible shaft making machine. The device is provided with a cutting element which when actuated severs flexible shafting passing through the device. Actuation of the cutting element of the device is controlled automatically in accordance with predetermined movement of the flexible shafting.
The wires making up flexible shafting of the type referred to, when the shafting is severed at any point along its length, have a 3G tendency to unwind or uncurl and slip longitudinally which is troublesome in practice because it interferes with placing couplings or terminals on the ends formed by `severing the shafting. By the device of my invention,
this troublesome tendency of the wires making up the flexible shafting to unwind or uncurl, when the shafting is severed, is eliminated as the wir-es are set by the device over a portion of the shaft-ing which includes the point at which the shafting is to beI cut.
Specifically, I provide a device for cutting flexible shafting in which the cutting element is mounted on a movable carriage. The carriage operating mechanism is adapted to e5 be connected through a clutch mechanism to a source of power or to the operating mechanism of a flexible shaft making machine. The clutch mechanism is controlled by a solenoid to connect the operating mechanism of the carriage to the source of power for driving the operating mechanism of the carriage. Energization of the solenoid is controlled by the flexible shafting passing through the device. rlhe shafting passes between two members which form a guide for the shafting and in which there is an adjustable abutment. The abutment constitutes an electrical contact member, and it makes an electrical contact with the end of the flexible shafting passing through the device, when the end of 6othe shafting touches the abutment. The electrical connection between the flexible shafting and the contactor on the abutment completes a circuit to the solenoid for operating the aforementioned clutch, and the solenoid c5 actuates the clutch to connect the carriage operating' mechanism to the source of power. rlhe carriage then moves along` with the flexible shafting, and when it reaches approximately the end of` its travel, the cutting element `is actuated to cut the shafting.
On either side of the cutting element there are electrical contact members mounted on the carriage. These contact members are adapted to make electrical contact with shafting passing through the device, and in order to insure good electrical contact, the contactors are made to grip the flexible shafting as the carriage starts traveling in the direction of movement of the flexible shafting. After 8o these contactors grip the flexible shafting, an electric circuit is completed to energize contactors so that a current of electricity flows between the contactors, through the flexible shafting. The current flowing through the flexible shafting between the contactors is of sufficient strength to heat the flexible shafting and raise the temperature thereof high enough to set the wires forming the layers which constitute the flexible shafting. The
carriage is made to travel slightly faster than the flexible shafting and the gripping action of the contactor behind the cutting element, relative to the direction of movement of the carriage, loosely grips the flexible shafting so that it may slip therein to take up the increase in length of the portion of the flexible shafting between the contactors caused by the expansion of the shafting when it is heated. When the cutting element is actuated to cut the flexible shafting, the contactors are actuated to release the flexible shafting, the carriage is returned to its original position, and the clutch is actuated to disengage the carriage operating mechanism from the source of power. The piece of shafting that is cut is removed from the device and the end formed by severing the shafting proceeds along the guideway to abut against, and make electrical contact with the abutment contactor to start again the cycle of operation just described.
The abutment contactor is adjustable to vary the length of the pieces of flexible shaftin g severed by the device. The clutch for connecting the carriage operating means to the source of power is also adjustable to vary the length of the pieces of flexible Shafting severed by the device. The former adjustment is a rough adjustment, the latter being a fine adjustment.
My invention will be more clearly understood from the following particular description of the embodiment thereof shown in the accompanying drawings, in which:
Fig. 1 is a partial sectional elevation of a device which embodies my invention;
Fig. 2 is a plan of the same;
Fig. 3 is an enlarged fragmentary plan, partly in section;
Fig. 4 is a transverse section taken on the line 4 4 of Fig. 1;
Fig. 5 is an enlarged' fragmentary section taken on the line 5-5 of Fig. 2; l
Fig. 6 is a transverse section of the clutch mechanism taken on the line 66 of Fig. 1;
.Fig 7 is an end view of the clutch mechamsm taken on the line 7-7 of Fig. 1;
Fig. 8 is an enlarged fragmentary sectional elevation of the clutch mechanism;
Fig. 9 is a longitudinal elevation of one of the parts of the clutch mechanism;
Fig. 10 is a section of the same taken on the line 10-10 of Fig. 9;
Fig. 11 is a longitudinal section of another element of the clutch mechanism;
Fig. 12 is an end elevation of the same;
Fig. 13 is a transverse section taken on the irregular line 13-13 of Fig. 2;
Fig. 14 is a transverse section taken on the line 14-14 of Fig. 2.
In the device shown in the drawings the cutting element consists of a knife 1 carried by a holder to which it is secured by means of pins 3. The holder is slidably mounted within a casing, and extends beyond the casing at both ends, the extended end having downwardly extending projections i on which cam followers 4a and il?) are mounted which cooperate with cams to actuate the lrnife in a manner which will hereinafter appear. At the center of the side walls 5 of the casing; there are aligned openings through which flexible shafting may pass. The opening in the side wall to the rear of the knife, relative to the direction of movement of flexible shafting through the device; is provided with a bushing 6 in which the flexible shafting lits snugly. rlhe knife is carried by the holder in contact with the inner surface of the wall in which the bushing 6 is placed; and the knife is adapted to shear the flexible shafting at the point at which it extends through the bushing.
r1`he cutting element described above is mounted upon a movable carriage 7 which is adapted to move longitudinally of the device. This carriage has; on either side thereof, flanges 8 which extend into channel-shaped grooves formed in the side frame members 9. rlhe grooves are formed in the side; frame members by cutting angular grooves in upper inwardly extending flanges 10 of the frame members and securing a plate 11 to the top of each of the frame members which plate extends out over the angular groove in the flanges and forms the upper side of the channel-shaped grooves; the plates being secured to the tops of the frame members b v machine screws 12. These channel-shaped grooves serve as guides, the frame members supporting, and the grooves guiding the carriage. l At the rear end of the carriage, relative to the direction of movement of flexible shafting through the device; there is a central, downwardly extending projection 13 through which a stub shaft 14 extends. On the end of this stub shaft7 there is mounted a cam roller 15 which engages the sides of a groove in a. cylindrical cam 16 that is mounted between the side members of the frame. The groove in this cylindrical cam is such that one revolution of the cam will move the carriage forwardly the length of the cam and return it to its initial position.
The cylindrical cam 16 is mounted within the frame of the device and is rotated through an annular gear 17 within the cam near the rear thereof and secured against a shoulder formed on the inner surface of the cam by means of machine screws 18. Between this annular gear and the rear end of the cylindrical cam there is a segment 19 carrying a brake shoe 20 which engages the inner surface of the cam. The segment 19 has a rectangular opening therethrough at the center thereof which fits over a rectangular projection 21 extendingy from the forward, end frame member 22. ln the lower side of thev projection 21; there is a recess 23 which forms a housing for a spring 24 that acts between the projection and the segment to cllcct the pressure with which the brake shoe is applied to the inner surface of the drum. rl`he brake shoe prevents the cam from rotating loosely and serves to take up back-lash in the train of gears through which the cam is driven, which train of gears will now be described.
Meshing with the annular gear 17 there is an idler pinion 25 which is rotatably mounted upon a. shaft 26 extending through the gear, end frame member 22. The pinion y25 meshes with another pinion 27 secured on a shaft 28 which extends between, and is journalled in the forward, end frame member 22 and an inwardly extending projection 3() formed on the rear, end frame member 3l. The shaft 28 has an enlarged portion intermediate its ends which is journalled in a bearing formed in a radial, inwardly extending bracket 32 formed on the cylindrical cam through which bracket the shaft supports the cylindrical cam. The cam is also rotatably supported by a. ledge 33 formed on the rear, end frame member 31. Thrust bearings 34 are provided on either side of the bearing bracket 32 to absorb the longitudinal forces acting on the cylindrical cam in moving the carriage. Adjacent the inwardly extending projection 30 of the rear, end frame member 31, there is an annular gear 35 secured to the shaft 28. This annulargear meshes with a pinion 36 secured on the end of a shaft 37 which extends through the projection 30 and the rear, end frame member 31 and which is journaled therein. On the end of the shaft 37 extending through the frame member 31, there is mounted a clutch mechanism through which the shaft is connected to the source of power or to the operating mechanism of a flexible shaft making machine.
Actuation of the clutch mechanism to conneet the carriage operating mechanism to the source of power is controlled by a solenoid which is energized when the end of the flexible shafti-ng passing through the device makes an electrical contact with an abutment in the path thereof. The abutment in the path of the flexible shafting is positioned between two angle members 39, flanges of which are arranged in parallel to form a channel 40 through which flexible shafting entering the device passes. The ends of the angle members removed from the frame are supported by a standard 41 on the top of which there is a frame 42 having upwardly extending parallel flanges 43. Securedto the opposed surfaces of the flanges of the frame 42, there are channel members 44, the webs of the channel members being secured to the sides of the flanges by screws 45. These channel members constitute tracks for rollers 46 mounted on the ends of a shaft 47. Upon this shaft, there are mounted two members 48 which support therebetween a plate 49 which is secured to the members by machine screws 50, the members 48 being secured to the shaft by set screws 5l. This plate 49 supports the free ends of the angle members and is mounted for movement longitudinally of the angle memers so that angle members of varying lengths may be used. The angle members are spaced apart by bars 52 which are secured in place by bolts 53. In the channel 40 formed by the angle members there is an abutment 54. The abutment has an overhanging portion 55 which overhangs the side of one of the angle members and which is provided with thumb screws 56 by means of which the abutment may be secured in any position in the channel formed by the angle members. The end of the flexible shafting passing through the channel formed by the angle members will abut against this abutment which carries an electrical contact member 57 which is adapted to make electric contact with flexible shafting striking the abutment. Insulation 58 on either side of the contactor prevents the contactor from through a rod 60 and lever 61, the clutch .f
mechanism to connect the carriage operating mechanism to the source of power.
The clutch mechanism used is shown in Figs. l and 6- to l2 inclusive and comprises a pawl 62 and rachet 63. The ratchet 63 consists of a cylinder having teeth formed in the inner surface thereof. This ratchet also con,- stitutes the casing of the clutch and is mounted upon a cylinder 64 which is keyed on the end of the shaft 37 extending through the rear, end frame member. `The cylindrical ratchet is mounted on the cylinder 64 through annuli 65 which surround the cylinder 64 adjacent the ends thereof. The teeth of the ratchet extend between the annuli, adjacent the outer periphery of the cylinder 64, the ratchet having flanges 66 and 67 on either side of the toothed portion which extend over the annuli and which are secured to the annulus by means of machine screws 68. A
semi-circular groove 69 is cut in the periphery of the cylinder 64 longitudinally thereof. and in this groove the pawl 62 is mounted. The pawl consists of a pin which is adapted to fit in the groove formed in the periphery of the cylinder 64. Intermediate the ends. a distance equal to the length of the teeth in the ratchet, the pawl is semi-circular in cross section as shown in Figs. 9 and 10. At one end the pawl has a radially extending projection 70 which extends through a groove 7l in the end of the cylinder 64, and at the opposite end the pawl has a groove 72 formed therein. end of thecylinder 64 and the groove is en- This latter end extends beyond the gaged by a hook-shaped member 73 that is secured to the end of the shaft 87 by means of a bolt 38 as shown in Fig. 8. The laterally extending projection 7 0 formed on the opposite end of the pawl has a tapered hole therethrough which is adapted to receive and engage a tapered spring 74 that is secured at its free end to a pin 75 secured in the ratchet 63. The force of this spring acts to turn the p21-wl in the semi-circular groove 69 in the cylinder 64-so that the edge of the semi-circular portion of the pawl extends between successive teeth of the ratchet and engages a tooth of the ratchet. Y When this occurs the ratchet and the shaft 37 are connected through the pawl. f
The projection on the pawl extends beyond the casing of the clutch, and is adapted to be engaged by a stationary projection 76 that extends into the path of the projection 70 on the pawl. The stationary proj ection 76 opposes the action of the spring 74, and maintains the pawl in the position shown in Figs. 6 and 7, that is, out of engagement with the teeth of the ratchet. The projection 76 is formed on a hub 77 that fits over the tapered end of a shaft 7 8 which extends through the rear, en dframe member and is slidably mounted therein. On the opposite end of the shaft 78, there is a convolute spring 79 which acts between a pin 80 extending through the shaft and the inner surface of the frame member to maintain the proj ection 76 in the path of the radially extending projection 70 of the pawl. The lever 61 is pivoted between its ends and is bifurcated at both ends. At one end the rod 60 extending from the solenoid 59 is secured between the arms of the bifurcated portion. At the opposite end, the arms of the bifurcated portion extend partially around the shaft 78 and are adapted to engage the hub 77 of the stationary projection 76. The shaft 78 carrying the hub 77 is held against rotation by a projection 81 extending into a groove in the lever. As the lever is actuated by the solenoid it moves the shaft 78 longitudinally thereof against the action of the spring 79 to move the stationary projection 76 out of the path of the pawl projection 70. The pawl so released turns in its groove under the force of the spring 74 and engages a tooth of the ratchet to connect the ratchet to the shaft.
The ratchet is connected to the source of power through a shaft 82 formed integral with a cap 83 which is threaded in the flange 67 extending from the ratchet. This cap has upon the inner end thereof gear teeth 8st which engage a worm gear 85 journaled in the flange 67 of the ratchet. By means of this worm gear 85, which extends through the fiange 67 and as a squared end 86, the can 83 may be moved relative to the flange of the ratchet to change the relation between the cap and the ratchet and vary the length of the shafting cut by the device, as will hereinafter appear.
lhen the end of the flexible shafting passing through the device strikes the abutment and makes electrical contact therewith, the solenoid is energized, and in the manner described above actuates the clutch mechanism to connect the shaft 37 to the shaft 82 which is connected to the source of power. Through the train of gears described above rotation of the shaft 37 is transmitted to the cylindrical cam and the carriage is moved longitudinally by the cooperation of the cam follower l5 and the groove in the cam. rlhe ratio of the gears between the shaft and the cylindrical cam is such thatthe carriage moves at a speed slightly greater than the movement of the flexible shafting passing through the device. As the carriage moves longitudinally the cam followers ia and 4b cooperate with the cams 87, 88 and 89 secured to the upper surface of the side frame members 9 to move the knife in the casing, the cam la cooperating with the cams 87 and 88 and the cani follower 4]) cooperating with the cani 89. The am 89 maintains the knife in the position shown in Fig. 8 during approximately one half of the forward movement of the carriage until the cam follower en, engags the cam 87. The engaging surface of the cam 87 is, as shown,- inclined to the line of movement of the carriage and forces the knife holder to slide within the casing, causing the knife to traverse the path of the fiexible shafting passing through the casing, and shear the fiexible shafting. The surface of the cam 89 is out away at this point to permit the movement of the knife within its casing and to traverse the path of the fiexible shafting. On further movement of the carriage, the knife holder is moved in the opposite direction by the cooperation of the surface of the cam 89 which is inclined to the line of movement of the carriage oppositely to the inclination of the surface of the cam 87. longer than the inclined surface of the cam 87 and is of such length as to move the knife holder so that the cam follower 4a engages the surface of the cam 88. As the carriage is returned to its original position, the cam follower la engages the inclined portion of the cam 88 and is returned to its initial position.
As hereinbefore mentioned. the wires making up the layers of the flexible shafting are heated over a portion of the shafting which includes the point at which the flexible shafting is to be cut. The flexible shafting is heated by passing a current of electricity through a portion of the shafting and for this purpose there is mounted on the cariage, on either side of the cutting element, a pair of jaws which are adapted to rlhe inclined surface of the cam 89 isl grip the flexible shafting passing through the device and make electrical contact therewith. Each pair of jaws includes a stationary aws which is secured to the carriage by a bolt 91 which extends through a slot 92 in the carriage and through the opening provided therefor in the jaw. The stationary jaws are also provided with integral connectors 93 to which an electrical cable or wire 94 is adapted to be electrically connected. The movable jaw 95 of each pair of jaws is pivotally secured to the stationary jaw by a pin 96 extending through a projection on the movable jaw and the arms of a bifurcated portion of the stationary jaw between which the projection on the movable jaw extends. The stationary j aw is also provided with a projection 97 that is adapted to engage the upper portion of the movable jaw and limit the extent the movable jaw may be moved in a direction to open the jaws. The upper portions of the movable jaws are bifurcat-ed as clearly shown in Fig. 4 to receive rods 98 extending laterally in opposite directions from the ends of the arms of a yoke 99. The rods are electrically insulated from the movable jaws by fiber sleeves 100 which surround the rods 98. Through the yoke 99, the jaws are actuated to grip and release the flexible shafting to make electrical contact therewith.
The top 101 of the casing in which the knife holder 2 is mounted has a portion 101@ thereof of greater thickness than the remainder. The portion 101@ has a recess in its lower face substantially at the transverse center of the casing in which recess there is placed a cup-shaped member 102 which presses against the upper edge of the knife holder under the action of a convolute spring 103 within the member 102. The upper surface of the portion 101@ of the casing is grooved longitudinally thereof to receive a plate 104 which is slidably mounted in the groove and which is held in the groove by a cover plate 105. The plate 104 has a shoulder 106 formed on the upper surface thereof which is adapted to abut against the .edge of the cover plate 105 and there is a spring 107 acting to maintain the shoulder 106 of the plate 104 against the end of the cover plate. This spring is secured at one end to a pin 108 extending from the cover plate and at the other end to a bolt 109 which extends through the slidable plate and supports a cam follower 110 against the lower side of the movable plate. On the end of the movable plate opposite to the end on which the cam follower 110 is mounted there is a pin 111 extending from the upper surface of the movable plate over which the eye of an eyebolt 112 is fitted. The aforementioned yoke 99 is slidably mounted on the eyebolt. The yoke is held against the head of the eyebolt by means of a spring 113 surrounding the eyebolt and acting between nuts 114 on the end of the bolt and the yoke.
rflic cam follower 110 cooperates with a cam 115 carried on the end of one arm of a Jell crank lever 116. The bell crank lever 116 is pivotally mounted on a pin 117 .extending from the upper surface of the side frame member 9 and has a projection 118 which is adapted to abut against a pin 119 when the cam 115 is in position to cooperate with the cam follower 110, to which position the bell crank lever is resiliently urged by a spring 120. The cam 115 has a pair of parallel cam surfaces which are inclined to the line of movement of the carriage, and as the carriage starts moving, the cam follower 110 engages the rear face of the cam, relative to the direction of movement of the flexible shafting. As the follower 110 rides along the inclined surface of the cam, the movable plate 104 is moved to the left, as seen in Fig. 5, against the action of the spring 107. Movement of the plate 104 moves the yoke 99 and causes the rods 98 to close the j aws which grip the fiexible shafting and make electrical contact therewith. The pressure with which the flexible shafting is gripped between the jaws is determined by the force of the spring 113 acting between the yoke and the nuts on the eyebolt.
The plate 104 is held in its outermost position when moved thereto by a pawl 121 which is pivotally mounted in an opening through thetop 101 of the knife holder casing and which engages a shoulder 122 formed in the' lower surface of the plate. The pawl is pivoted between its ends and there is a spring 123 housed in a recess which acts upon the pawl, urging it to rotate about its pivot so that one end of the pawl, which is squared, presses against the lower surface of the plate and engages the shoulder formed in the plate when it is moved beyond the end of ther pawl. The other end of the pawl, which is rounded, extends into a recess in the top of the knife holder when the pawl engages the shoulder on the plate 104. The ends 124 of the recess in the top of the knife holder are inclined and act as cams, the rounded end of the pawl acting as a cam follower. l/Vhen the knife holder is subsequently actuated, as hereinbefore explained, to shear the flexible shafting, the inclined side 124 of the recess in the knife holder acts upon the rounded end of the pawl, rotating the pawl about its pivot against the action of the spring 123 to release the plate 104. The plate 104 is then returned, by the spring 107, to its initial position to open the jaws and release the flexible shafting. On the return of the carriage, the cam follower 110 engages the forward cam surface of the cam 115 and turns the lever 116 about its pivot so that the cam follower may pass the cam.
On the rear, end frame member, there is a bell crank lever 125 which is pivotally connected to the frame member. The bell crank lever carries a cam follower 126 which abuts against the edge of the cylindrical cam. This lever also carries a switch contacter 127 which is insulated therefrom and cooperates with a stationary contact 128 to make and break a circuit to a transformer 129 which is secured to the carriage and furnishes current to the jaws. The cam follower' 126 on the bell crank lever is held against the edge of the cylindrical cam by a spring 130 and a cam 131 on the edge of the cylindrical cam determines the action `of the switch. This cam is designed so that as the carriage moves and the flexible shafting passing therethrough is gripped between the jaws the switch is closed, closing the circuit to the transformer which energizes the jaws so that a current of electricity passes between the jaws, through the flexible shafting. The current passing through the flexible shafting heats the flexible shafting sufficiently to set the wires forming the layers of the flexible shafting so that when the flexible shafting is cut by the action of the cutting element the wires making up the flexible shafting will not unravel or unwind.
The bolts securing the stationary part of the jaws in place pass through slots in the carriage, as hereinbefore described, so that the distance between the jaws on either side of the cutting element may be varied to increase or decrease the length of sha-fting through which the current passes, and thereby regulate the temperature to which the flexible shafting is raised by the current passing therethrough.
After the cylindrical cam has made one complete revolution, the clutch mechanism is actuated to disconnect the carriage operating mechanism from the source of power. When the shaft 78 is moved by the solenoid to permit the pawl of the clutch to engage the ratchet it is held in the position to which it is moved by the solenoid by a bell crank lever 132 pivotally mounted on the rear, end frame member 30 within the cylindrical cam. On the end of one arm of the bell crank lever 132 there is a roller 133 which engages the inner surface of the cylindrical cam. The other arm of the bell crank lever extends transversely to the shaft 78 which carries the stationary projection 76 that engages the projection 7 0 on the pawl of the clutch, and it is adapted to frictionaily engage the shaft 78. T his'arm of the bell crank lever isheld in frictional engagement with the shaft 78 by a spring 134 which is connected to the arm at one end, and at the opposite end to a stationary pin secured in the bearing bracket 32. When the shaft is moved longitudinally by the solenoid 59, so that the projection 96 releases the pawl of the clutch, the arm of the bell crank lever, frictionally engaging the shaft, holds the shaft against the action of the spring 79. The
head 135 of a bolt 136 extending through the cylindrical cam forms a projection or cam which is adapted to engage the roller 133 on the arm of the bell crank lever. `When this cam engages the roller yon the arm of the bell crank, the bell crank lever is turned about its pivot against the action of the spring 134 and releases the shaft 7 8 so that it may be moved under the action of the spring 79 to move the stationary projection 76 into the path of the projection extending from the pawl of the clutch. When the shaft is released by actuation of the bell crank lever and the stationary projection 76 moves into the path of the projection 7 0 extending from the pawl.y it engages the projection 70 and by virtue of the rotation of the shaft 73, the pawl is rotated in the groove in the cylinder 64 to disengage the pawl from the ratchet, in which position the pawl remains until the stationary projection is moved again by the action of the solenoid 59 Flexible shafting passing through the device is held in the channel 40, formed by the angle members 39, so that it will contact with the abutment contactor 57 to energize the solenoid 59 by a plate 137. The plate is secured to a flange of one of the angle members by bolts 138 extending through slots 139 formed in t-he plate. The slots 139 are inclined to the plane of the channel 40 and rollers 140 on the bolts 138 engage the sides of the slots, so that the plate may slide relative to the angle members. T he end of the plate adjacent the carriage of the device is also inclined to the plane of the channel 40, and the carriage carries aprojection 141 having an inclined end which is adapted to engage the inclined edge of the plate. When these surfaces engage and the carriage is moved, the plate moves at an angle to the plane of the channel 40 in accordance with the inclination of the slots 139. The plate, in this way,'is moved beyond the channel and the'piece of flexible shafting, severed by the action of the cutting element, drops through the bottom of the channel to the fioor. The angle members 39 are held from moving with the plate by a bracket 142 to which they are secured and which in turn is secured to the frame by the pin 143 extending through a projection 144 on the bracket and a bifurcated end portion of the frame of the device. To the bottom plate there is secured an arm 145 which is pivotally secured to a bar 146 by a bolt 147. This bar passes through a groove formed in a bracket 148 which is pivotally secured between the arms of a bifurcated extension 149 on the side frame member by means of a pin 150. To the side of this bracket there is resiliently secured a plate 151 which presses against the surface of the bar 148 passing through the groove in the bracket. The plate 151 is secured to the bracket by means of bolts 152,
springs 153 being interposed between the nuts 154 on the bolts and the plate. This plate151 acts as a brake to insure even action of the plate 137, which is returned to its original position beneath the channel et() by a spring.
The operation of the devicey is as follows: Assuming that the device is to'be operated in conjunction with a flexible shaftmaking mag chine it willl be arranged adjacent the end of the flexible shaft making machine at which the fabricated shafting leaves the machine. The shaft 82 of the clutch will be connected to one of the shafts of the flexibleshafft making machine. The flexible shafting made by the machine will be fed by the feeders of the machine through the openings in the sides 5 of the casing ofthe cutting element, across the stationary jaws on either side of the cutting' element, and into the channel l0 formed by the angle members 39. As the shaft is made and fed through the cutting device the end of the shaft will tra-vel through the channel il0 and abut against the abutment 54 in the channel, making an electrical contact with the contacter 57 carried by the abutment. The electrical connection between the flexible shafting and the contactor 57 carried by the abutment closesv the circuit of the solenoid which draws the rod 60 in the direction of movement of the flexible shafting. Movement of the rod in this direction actuates the lever 61 about its pivot and moves the shaft 7 8 which carries the stal` tionary projection 76. As the stationary pro'- jection is moved out of contact with the projection extending from the pawl of the clutch, the pawl is rotated by the action of the spring 74 and engages a, tooth of the ratchet which is continually rotated through the shaft 82 and the cap 83. Engagement of the ratchet by the pawl connects the shaft 82 to the 'shaft 37 and causes the latter to rotate. Rotation of the shaft 37 is transmitted through the angular gear 35, shaft 28, pinion 27', idler pinion 25, and the angular' gear 17 to the cylindrical cam. The back-lash in the train of gears is taken up before the cam start-s to rotate by virtue of the brake shoe 2O which presses against the inner surface of the cylindrical cam. As the cam rotates, the cam follower 15 follows the groove inthe cylindrical cam and moves the `carriage 7 longitudinally thereof.
Movement of the carriage causes the cam follower 110, on the movable plate 1011, to engage the cam 115, on the bell crank lever 116, which movesthe cam follower and the plate 1011. Through the rods 98 on the arms of the yoke 99, which is connected to the plate 104 through the eye-bolt 112, movement of the plate causes movement of the movable jaws to grip the flexible shafting between they movable andv stationary jaws. Immediately after the flexible shafting is gripped between the jaws, the bell crank lever 125 is actuatedv tov close the switch, thereby closing thecircuit to the transformer 129 which energizes the gripping jaws to cause aicurrent of electricity to pass between that portion.
shaft, shearing the shafting adj-acentthe side of the casing to the rear ofthe knife relative to the direction of movement of the flexible- .shafting.
The jaw to the rear of the cutting element, relative to the direction of movement of the liexible shafting through the device,k loosely grips the flexible shafting and the carriage is moved ata speed slightly greater than the speed of movement of the flexible shafting. In this way, the increase in length of the portion of the flexible shafting which is heated, is taken up.
As the flexible shafting is cut, the bell crank lever 125 is actuated to open the circuit to the transformer, and when the knife moves to cut the flexible shaft-ing, the pawl 121 is actuated to release the slidable plate 104; and permit the spring 107 to open the jaws, and release the flexible shafting.
During the movement of the carriage forwardly, in the direction of movement of the flexible shafting, the inclined edge of the projection 141, on the end of the carriage, engages the inclined edge ofthe plate 137 forming the base of the channel 410, and moves the plate, by virtue of the inclined surfaces and inclined slots 139, transversely. to the plane of the channel 40. l/Vhen the shafting is cut, the plate 140 is out of the plane of the channel 40, permitting the severed piece of shafting to fall on to the floor.
At the end of the forward movement of the carriage, the cam follower 4J), ofthe knife holder 2, engages the inclined surface of the cam 89, which moves the knife holder in the opposite direction. This cam moves the knife holder sufliciently to cause the cam follower la, on the return of the carriage, to pass behind the cam block 37. As the carriage returns, the cam follower on the movable plate 140 engages the forward inclined surface of the cam 115 on the bell crank lever 116 and swings the bell crank lever .so that the cam follower of the movable plate may pass the cam. At the same time, the cam follower on the knife holder engages the inclined surface of the cam 88 and the knife holder is returned to its initial position. The return movement of the carriage also permits the plate 137 to assume its initial position beneath the channel Ll0.
As the carriage reaches its initial position, the head 135 of the bolt 136, extending through the cylindrical cam, engages' the sei roller 133, on the bell crank lever 132, actuating the bell crank lever to release the shaft T 8 Which is returned to its initial position under the action of the spring 79. As the projection 70, extending from the pavvl of the ratchet, engages the stationary projection 76, which is now in the path of the projection 70, the paWl is turned and the engagement between the pawl Vand the ratchet is broken.
It Will be seen that the length of the piece of flexible shafting cut may be varied by moving the abutment in the channel. rlhis movement of the abutment roughly determines tlie length of the pieces of flexible shafting to be cut. By turning the Worm S5 in the clutch, a fine adjustment in the length of the flexible shafting to be cut, may be had.
From the above description of the embodiment of my invention shown in the drawings, it Will be apparent that I have devised a device for severing flexible shafting or the like into pieces of predetermined length. rlhe device is automatic, and it is universal in its application, in that the length of thev piece of flexible shafting severed may be varied at Will. The device also eliminates unraveling or untwisting of the Wires forming the flexible shafting by setting the Wires before the shaftiiig is severed.
It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that various changes may be made in the details of the embodiment shown in the drawings Within the principle and scope of my iiivention, as expressed in the appended claims.
I claim:
l. A device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length Vcomprising means for cutting flexible shafting, means for guiding flexible shafting through the device, an abutment in the path of flexible shafting passing through the device and constituting an electrical contact element, electrical means for controlling the actuation 0f said cutting means, and a circuit to said electrical means including the flexible shafting and the electrical contact element.
2. In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length and a cutting element comprising a casing havingy openings through the sides thereof through which flexible shafting is adapted to pass, a knife Within the casing. and means for moving the knife Within the easing transverse to the path of' the flexible shafting through the casing.
3. In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length and a cutting element comprising a casing having openings through the sides thereof through which flexible sliafting is adapted to pass, a knife Within the casing slidably mounted against one side thereof, and means for moving the knife across the path of the flexible shafting.
Al. In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length, a carriage, means for cutting flexible shafting carried by said carriage, means for gripping flexible shafting passing through the device on either side of said cutting means, electrical connections to said gripping means, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing said gripping means to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, means for energizing said gripping means, and means for actuating said cutting means.
5. In a device for cutting flexible sliafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length, a carriage, means for cutting flexible shaftiiig carried by said carriage, means for gripping flexible shafting passing through the device on either side of said cutting means, electrical lconnections to said gripping means, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing said gripping means to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, means for energizing said gripping means, means for actuating said cutting means, means for releasing said gripping means, and means for returning the carriage to its initial position.
6. In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously into pieces of predetermined length, a carriage, means for cutting flexible sliafting carried by said cai'riage, means for gripping flexible shafting passing through the device on either side of said cutting means, electrical connections to said gripping means, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing said gripping means to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, means for energizing said gripping means, means for actuating said cutting means, means actuated by the movement of said cutting means for releasing said gripping means, and means for returning the carriage to its initial position.
7. In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto, a carriage, means for cutting flexible shafting carried by said carriage, means for gripping flexible shafting passing through the device on either side of said cutting means, electrical connections to said gripping means, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing said gripping means to grip flexible shaftingypassing thro-ugh lthe device, electrical connections to the gripping means,
Vmeans for energizing the gripping means to ,flexible shafting so that it may slip therethrough to take up expansion of the flexible shafting, means for actuating said cutting mea-ns, means actuated by the movement of `said cutting vmeans vfor releasing said cutting means, and means for retu-rning the carriage to its initial position.
y8. In a device for cutting .flexible shafting into pieces of predetermined length, a carriage, a knife carried by the carriage for cutting flexible shafting, a pair of jaws on either side of the knife, means for guiding .flexible shafting transversely to the knife and between the jaws of each of said pairs of jaws, electrical connections to said jaws, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing tthrough'the-device, at a speed slightly greater than the speed .of 1flexible shafting passing through the device, means for causing the awson either side ofthe knife to grip flexible shafting lpassing' through the device and `make electrical connection therewith, the
jaws to the rearof the knife relativeto the direction of movement of the carriage-loosely lgrippingthe vflexible shafting sovthat it may -slip ftherein to .take up expansion of the ,flexible shafting caused-by-heating the shafting, and-means for causing the knife to traiverse ithe .path of the flexible shafting.
9. In a` devieefor cuttingflexible shafting Vadapted Ato cut shafting continuously fed -theretofmeans -for heating a portion of the lflexible shaft at the point at which `the shaft j fistofbe. eut comprising a pair of .spaced electrical contact `members adapted to make electrical contact with flexible shaftiiig pass-V Vingthrough the device,meansformoving the vcontacts in .accordance -with the speed of -movement of the flexible shaft, and means for wenergizing the contacts to cause a'current of electricity -to pass between the contacts `through vthe-flexible shaft and heat the flex- Vible shaft.
.110. Ina device 'for cuttingflexible shaft- *ing adapted to cut shafting continuously fed fthereto,!means 'forheating aportion of the flexible shaft atthe'point atiwhich the shaft is; tobegcut comprising a pair of jaws adapted -to :griprfl-exible shafting'passing through the `ydevice, a secondpair of jaws spaced from saidffirstv'pair of fjaws,vmeans for causing each/of said pairs of jaws to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, means for moving both pairs of jaws in accordance with the movement of the flexible shafting, electrical connections to said jaws, and means for energizing each of said pairs of jaws to cause an electric current to flow therebetween through the flexible shafting and heatl the flexible shafting.
ll. In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted tocut shafting continuously 4fed thereto, means for heating a portion of the flexible shaft at the point at which the shaft is to be cut comprising a pair of jaws adapted to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, a second pair of jaws spaced from said rst pair of jaws, means for causing each of said pairs of j aws to grip flexible shafting passing through the device, electrical connections to each of said pairs of jaws, means for energizing each of said pairs of jaws to cause a current of electricity `to flow between the two pairs of jaws through the flexible shafting, and means for movingfboth pairs of jaws in unison at a speed slightly greater than the speed of movement of the flexible shafting, the pair of aws to the rear l relative to the direction of movement of the flexible shafting loosely gripping the shafting so that it may slip therein to take up the increase in length of the portion of the shafting between the two pairs of jaws due ing, a cutting element, a pair of jaws on leither side of the cutting` element adapted to grip flexible shafting passing through 4the device aiidmake electrical contact therewith, resilient ymeans 'urging said Igripping jaws tothe inoperative position, means yfor operating the aws to grip flexible shafting, means for holding the jaws in the operative position and means actuated by the operation of said cutting element to release said holding means. la. In ya device for cutting flexible shafting, a carriage having ,a cutting element thereon aiidmeans for heating a ortionof flexible shaftiiig passing through Ythe, device at the point at which it isto becut, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, meansl actuated by movement of the carriage for controlling the operation of the heating meansand the eut- `ting element, and means responsive to preiio determined movements of the shafting for controlling the carriage actuating means.
15. In a device `for cutting flexible shafting, a. carriage having a cutting element thereon and means for heating al portion of flexible shafting passing through the device at the point at which it is to be cut, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means actuated by movement of the carriage for controlling the operation of the heating means and the cutting element, a clutch adapted to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, and means responsive to predetermined movements of the shafting controlling the operation of the clutch to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power.
16. In a device for cutting flexible shafting, a carriage having a cutting element thereon and means for heating a portion of flexible shafting passing through the device at the point at which it is to be cut, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means actuated by movement of the carriage for controlling the operation of the heating means and the cutting element, a clutch adapted to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, means responsive to predetermined movements of the shafting for controlling the operation of the clutch to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, and means operated by the carriage operating means for controlling the operation of the clutch to disconnect the carriage operating means from the source of power.
17. In a device for cutting flexible shafting, a carriage having a cutting element thereon and means for heating a portion of flexible shafting passing'through the device at the point at which it is to be out, means for ymovin g the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means actuated by movement of the carriage for controlling the operation of the heating means and the cutting element, a clutch adapted to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, means responsive to predetermined movements ofthe shafting for controlling the operation of the clutch to connect the carriage operating means to a source of power, means operated by the carriage operating means for controlling the operation of the clutch to disconnect the carriage operating means from the source of power, and means for adjusting the clutch to vary the length of flexible shafting severedv by the cutting means.
18. A device for cuttingl flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length comprising means for cutting flexible shaftmg, means actuated 1n accordance with the and means movable with the flexible shafting for acting on the shafting to set the wires making up the shafting to prevent the unraveling thereof over a portion of the shafting at thepoint at which it is to be cut.
20. In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length, a carriage, means for cutting flexible shafting carried by the carriage, means carried by said carriage for setting the wires making up the shafting to prevent the unraveling thereof over a portion of the shafting at the point it is to be cut, and means for moving the carriage in thel direction of movement of the flexible shafting passing through the device while said setting means is acting 011 the shafting.
21. In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto into pieces of predetermined length, a carriage, means for cutting the flexible shafting carried by said carriage, electrical contact elements carried by said carriage, one on either side'of said cutting means adapted to makeelectrical contact with the flexible shafting, means for moving the carriage in the direction of movement of flexible shafting passing through the device, means for energizing saidv contact elements during movement of the carriage, and means for actuating the cutting means. f
22. In a device for cutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto, means for setting the wires making up the shafting to prevent the unraveling thereof over a portion of the flexible shaft at the point at which the shaft is to be cut, and means for moving the setting means, in accordance with the speed of movement ofthe flexible shaft during the time said setting means is acting. f
28. In a device forcutting flexible shafting adapted to cut shafting continuously fed thereto, means for setting the wires making up the sh afting Vto prevent the unraveling thereof over a portion of the shafting at the point at which the shaft is to be cut comprising means for heating a portion of .the shafti ng, and means for moving said heating means in accordance with the speed of movement of the shafting. Y
my signature.
LOUIS I'I. MORIN.
US50189530 1930-12-12 1930-12-12 Means for automatically cutting flexible shafting Expired - Lifetime US1906867A (en)

Priority Applications (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US50189530 US1906867A (en) 1930-12-12 1930-12-12 Means for automatically cutting flexible shafting

Applications Claiming Priority (1)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US50189530 US1906867A (en) 1930-12-12 1930-12-12 Means for automatically cutting flexible shafting

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
US1906867A true US1906867A (en) 1933-05-02

Family

ID=23995452

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
US50189530 Expired - Lifetime US1906867A (en) 1930-12-12 1930-12-12 Means for automatically cutting flexible shafting

Country Status (1)

Country Link
US (1) US1906867A (en)

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US2024597A (en) Electric welding machine
US2929136A (en) Wire length measuring, marking and severing equipment
US2171667A (en) Roll-winding mechanism
US3199383A (en) Wire cutting and stripping device with blade heating means and cam and eccentric actuation means
US2998633A (en) Wire cutting, stripping and terminal attaching machine
US1906867A (en) Means for automatically cutting flexible shafting
US2310071A (en) Condenser winding machine
US1991423A (en) Label cutting and folding mechanism
US1897460A (en) Grid making machine and method
US1467841A (en) Automatic sheet winding and measuring machine
ES346873A1 (en) Proportional spacing embossing tool
GB470474A (en) Improvements in and relating to welding wires together
US1894379A (en) Gummed tape serving machine
US2509760A (en) Shearing apparatus
US2480677A (en) Grid making machine
US1681306A (en) Machine for cutting to length continuously-forming tubing
US2838113A (en) Method and apparatus for cutting print
US1562645A (en) Helix-winding machine
US2101382A (en) Safety device for coiling machines
US3178978A (en) Tape dispenser
US2786638A (en) Automatic strip coiler
US2757584A (en) Tear tab machine
US2908910A (en) Wire cutting and terminal attaching machine
US1058799A (en) Sheet-metal straightening and cutting-off machine.
US1913447A (en) Tube forming machine