Fluid-actuated indexing apparatus

摘要

A fluid-actuated indexing apparatus (10) for selectively indexing a payload (25) attached thereto about an axis (A-A). The apparatus (10) includes an indexable table (20) that is movable between a plurality of locked positions about the axis (A-A) and an unlocked position wherein it can be rotated by a fluid-actuated indexing assembly (15). The indexing assembly (15) retains the table in a locked position when a first amount of pressurized fluid is applied to the assembly (15). When the apparatus (10) is in an unlocked position, pressurized fluid is introduced to rotate the indexable table (20) a predetermined amount. The indexing assembly (15) retains the indexable table (20) in a locked position when the supply of pressurized fluid is discontinued to the apparatus (10). The apparatus (10) may also include a device (202) for detecting when the indexable table (20) is in a predetermined starting position.