Clutch
A clutch is an electrically actuated engaging device to link the drive motor to the switch actuating mechanism. When the clutch is open, the timer resets. When it is closed, the motor drives the actuating linkage against the micro-switch at the end of timing. We employ two types of clutches. A tooth clutch for compact designs may, depending upon construction, introduce an error up to ±½ tooth regardless of setting. A larger infinite engagement disc and pad clutch are used where accuracy and durability are important.
Clutch Motor (Shift Motor)
The special characteristic of the clutch motor is a built-in clutch to engage and disengage the motor gear train. The pinion rotor is engaged by magnetic attraction when power is applied to the motor. This motor is used for the fast time cycles on many of our timers.
Detent and Rise
Portions of a cam used to actuate a switch during rotation. The detent is the lower portion of the cam. When the switch actuator is on this part of the cam, the switch is in its normal position. The rise is the high part of the cam. In going from detent to rise (or vice versa), the load switch transfers.
Interval (Instantaneous)
An interval timer closes its load circuits immediately upon receiving a start command. This circuit is closed (or opened) for the duration of the preselected time. At the end of the time, the load circuit opens and the timer resets. Many interval timers are designed to start from a momentary pulse. If this pulse is longer than the time period, the load circuit will open but timer will not reset until start circuit is opened.
Multi-Function
A timing device which normally will provide more than one mode of operation; i.e. Series GP2 is both a delay and an interval timer.
Off Delay (Reverse Clutch)
An off delay or reverse clutch timer resets upon application of power from a remote switch closure. The normally closed timer switch closes. When power is removed by opening the remote switch, timing starts. At the end of time period, the normally closed switch opens. Timer can be left in this position indefinitely. Most Industrial Timer products are available in this mode by specifying Reverse Clutch when ordered.
Programming (Cam Timer)
Our multi-switch cam timers can be programmed to control a series of events from start to finish over a period of time. Each cam can be set for dwell and positioned in respect to each other for complete machine control.
Recycling
A recycling timer provides on-off periods continuously as long as the time is energized. Recycling timers are available with single or multiple adjustable outputs in various time cycles.
Single Cycle or Homing
One complete cycle of operation. The cam timer or system of timers which progress through a number of functions and stop. The cycle is usually started by a momentary contact closure.
Slip Clutch (Friction Clutch)
A slip clutch is a positive engagement device which slips when the torque reaches a predetermined amount. We use slip clutches as a protection device in many of our timers to protect the motor if the timer is left in the timed out position and not immediately reset. We also use slip clutches in the cams of our cam timers to allow setting the cams without using set screws.
Time Delay (On Delay)
A time delay timer closes (or opens) a circuit at the end of a predetermined time period. Upon the application of power from an external switch closure the timer starts. At the end of the period, the timer load switch transfers and remains in this position until the external switch is opened. The timer then resets to its preset time.
Time Recording
Our stop clocks and running time meters are time recording devices. Generally, stop clocks are used to time fast events, whereas running time meters are used for recording long duration events.
