Rapid feed split lead nut system

A system for enabling rapid machine adjustment, comprising:

• a support structure;
• a lead screw rotatably mounted in the support structure;
• a tool;
• and
• a split lead nut system to couple the tool to the lead screw for movement of the tool relative to the support structure, the split lead nut system comprising:
• a plurality of lead nut sections which may be selectively shifted between an open position and a closed position, the closed position positioning the plurality of lead nut sections in threaded engagement with the lead screw;
• and
• a releasable clasp mechanism actuatable to selectively release the plurality of lead nut sections from the lead screw to enable rapid shifting of the tool to a different position along the lead screw.

A method, comprising:

• providing a split lead nut system with a pair of lead nut sections;
• positioning the split lead nut system at a desired location along a lead screw;
• closing the pair of lead nut sections over the lead screw;
• and
• securing the pair of lead nut sections in operable engagement with the lead screw via a clasp to enable movement of the split lead nut system along the lead screw via rotation of the lead screw.