Importance

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Abstract

A machining operation where a workpiece is moved stepwise in a transport direction through a succession of stations has a transport apparatus comprising a stationary housing adjacent the stations, a rail extending in the direction adjacent the stations and movable both parallel and perpendicular to the direction, and a plurality of clamps spaced apart in the direction on the rail and each displaceable between an open and a closed position, whereby a workpiece can be gripped by each of the clamps in the closed position thereof. A set of control rods carried and displaceable on the rail is oppositely displaceable to move the clamps between their open and closed positions. A pair of like lever systems each having an inner end pivoted on the housing and an outer end pivoted on the rail can be synchronously pivoted to displace the rail through a predetermined stroke perpendicular to the direction between inner and outer positions. A transverse guide and entrainment element carried at least partially on the rail can displace the rail through a predetermined stroke parallel to the direction between upstream and downstream end positions. A set of endless flexible drive elements, either toothed belts or chains, extends along one of the lever systems and has an outer end connected to a pinion meshing with the jaw-control rods for displacing the clamps between their open and closed positions.

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First Claim