This mechanism translates a continuous gear train into a timed extend¨Cretract action at the yellow latch. A pair of purple gears drives the large pink disk, whose pin and linkage assembly convert rotation into an oscillating motion. This oscillation acts on the yellow latch shaft, compressing and releasing the spring so the latch moves forward and backward in sync with the drive.

Components — Purple driving gears, pink cam disk with pin, green connecting link, central output shaft, yellow latch arm, red compression spring, sliding guide block, and the transparent housing.

How it works — As the gear set rotates, it spins the large pink disk. The disk carries an offset pin that drives the green connecting link up and down once per revolution. This oscillation feeds directly into the yellow latch arm, causing the latch to slide forward against the red spring and then retract as the spring pushes it back. The coordinated motion between the cam, linkage, and spring produces a clean, rhythmic extension suitable for capturing or indexing a passing element at precise intervals.

Applications — Textile machinery needle timing, small part indexing, automatic feeders, mechanical pick-and-release systems, and any application requiring precise periodic capture.

Why it matters — The design delivers exact timing using only mechanical elements¡ªcams, gears, and springs¡ªmaking the actuation reliable even at high speeds. Its predictable, repeatable cycle is ideal for machines that must coordinate movement without relying on sensors or electronic controls.