INDEXING APPARATUS

摘要

An apparatus for selectively indexing a payload (25) about an axis (A). The apparatus includes a housing that supports an indexable support table. A retainer provided on the table is adapted to selectively axially engage a retainer on the housing to lock the table in any one of a plurality of selected rotational positions about the axis. The apparatus also includes an axial displacement member movably supported within the housing to selectively engage the table while the table is locked in any one of these positions. The axial displacement member can bias the table in a first axial direction out of the locked position and apply a rotational force to the table biaser can move the table in a second axial direction until the retainers are re-engaged to lock the table in the selected position. The apparatus may also include a device for detecting when the table is in a "zero" or "home" position.