Expanding shaft
US6196494A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 22, 1999 |
| Grant date | Mar 6, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 22, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB65H75/2437
- WIPO fieldHandling
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A cylindrical shaft has a plurality of radially disposed slots extending longitudinally thereof and opening at the outer surface of the shaft. A radially movable mechanism is disposed within each of the slots. Each mechanism is moved outwardly by an expandable tube. One of the slots opens at a side face of the shaft to provide a side opening through which a track can be inserted into and removed from the slot. Springs bias the track radially inwardly. The track includes an open end through which a support can be inserted into and removed from the track. A two piece retainer retains the track and support in operative position. A plurality of core stops are carried by the support and can be either adjustable longitudinally of the support or fixed to the support. The core stops engage side edges of tubular supports disposed around the shaft for spacing the tubular supports for a winding operation. One support with a particular spacing of core stops can be replaced by another support with a different spacing of core stops very quickly to minimize downtime of the shaft. In a modification, the support is of less length than the associated slot, and an adjusting lug is movably supported a…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.