Patent ID: 6196494
Filing Date: 2001-03-06
Classification: B65H

Abstract:
An expanding shaft comprising, a generally cylindrical shaft having a longitudinal axis and an outer surface, said shaft having a plurality of radially disposed slots extending longitudinally of said shaft and opening at said outer surface, said shaft being adapted to support one or more tubular supports each of which has side edges and is disposed coaxially around said shaft, a plurality of mobile means each of which is disposed within one of said slots for radial movement with respect to the shaft, thrusting means for urging each of said mobile means radially outwardly of said shaft, one of said mobile means comprising track means disposed in one of said slots and support means movably supported by said track means, a plurality of core stops supported by said support means and adapted to engage the side edges of one or more tubular supports, resilient means normally biasing said one mobile means radially inwardly of said shaft, and retainer means for retaining said one mobile means in position longitudinally of said shaft.