Spindle rotator

Abstract

A machine tool such as a multiple spindle automatic machine tool is provided with a motor acting through a slippable clutch on each of the multiple spindles to rotate the spindles and each spindle is provided with a brake to brake each spingle to a stop. A spindle rotational means is provided to rotate the spindle at a speed less than that established by full engagement of the clutch. This is accomplished by partial engagement of each the clutch and brake so that each slips. A spindle positioning means is further provided to position the spindle at a desired arcuate position. At such time the clutch is disengaged and the spindle is locked in rotational position. The clutch and brake are differentially controlled to control the relative average torque transmission therethrough to maintain a desired slow speed. The foregoing abstract is merely a resume of one general application, is not a complete discussion of all principles of operation or applications, and is not to be construed as a limitation on the scope of the claimed subject matter.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.