Disc spindle with flexible cap clamping
US9156139B1 · kind B1 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Jun 13, 2012 |
| Grant date | Oct 13, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 5, 2034 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25B5/163
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A hub for holding media during manufacturing processes, such as inspection, includes a flexible cap at an end that has a cylindrical profile for engaging with the central void in the media. The cap is expanded to retain the media, avoiding contact of the clamping mechanism with the face of the media, so that particulation is reduced and contact confined to the edges of the media's central void. An actuator draws end of the cap toward the clamp body to place the cap in a clamping state and moves the end of the cap away from the clamp body to unclamp a disc. Vacuum or pressure may be used to move the actuator to the clamping or released state by providing a piston within the hub and applying vacuum to one side of a diaphragm coupled to the piston or pressure to the other.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.