Patent ID: 6786318
Filing Date: 2004-09-07
Classification: B23Q,B65G

Abstract:
In combination with a table for supporting a workpiece, a low frictional transfer apparatus for permitting ease of movement of the workpiece across an working surface of said table, said table comprising:a plurality of slots formed within said table with said slots being open to said working surface, said slots being spaced apart; and a rail member mounted within each of said slots, said rail member having an upper surface and a lower surface, each said rail member having a plurality of rolling members protruding from said upper surface, each said rail member having a plurality of pistons, said pistons mounted in a spaced apart arrangement within each said rail member, each piston of said pistons being movably mounted within a cylinder with there being an individual said cylinder for each said piston, a connecting passage connecting between each directly adjacent pair of said cylinders with there being a plurality of connecting passages, said pistons having footpads, said footpads being extendable from said lower surface of said rail member by the application of pressurized air to said piston assembly which will cause said rolling members to be raised with the workpiece resting solely on said rolling members permitting the workpiece to be moved across said working surface of said table, the pressurized air to flow sequentially to said pistons through said connecting passages, upon release of the air pressure said rolling members will be lowered which will cause the workpiece to rest directly on said working surface and not be readily movable.