Indexing device for performing operational tasks on a tool element

An indexing device for successively positioning a tool element relative to an apparatus adapted to perform a series of operational tasks on said tool element, comprising:

• a base;
• a movable support mounted on said base and reciprocally displaceable along an axis of displacement;
• a fixing member adjustably mounted on said support for fixing said tool element thereto;
• a pivotable arm mounted to a horizontal pivot shaft fixed on said base and extending obliquely relative to the axis of displacement of said support and directly between said support and said apparatus;
• an indexing abutment mounted on said arm and positioned thereof to contact a part of said tool element;
• means allowing said support to move in a first direction along said axis to bring said tool element into a task performing position with said apparatus;
• said movable support having a pushing member extending therefrom, the pushing member having a frusto-spherical shaped head in direct contact with said arm;
• said pushing member being moved by said movable support in said first direction and causing pivotal movement of said arm when said support is moved in said first direction whereby said indexing abutment mounted on said arm is pivotally moved out of contact with said part of said tool element and clear of said tool element prior to and during said task performing operation;
• and
• means for returning said arm to a subsequent task performing position when said support is moved in a second direction opposite to said first direction.