Abstract: A multi-spindle machine system includes a pick-up attachment. Both the rotational and the axial positions and speeds of the pick-up spindle may be selectively controlled. A plurality of clutches may be used to rotate the pick-up spindle at different speeds. The clutches operatively engage respective drive gears to drive the pick-up spindle. A brake may be used to slow or stop the pick-up spindle. A servo motor may alternatively be used to rotate the pick-up spindle at different speeds. Another servo motor may be used to axially position the pick-up spindle at different locations. The pick-up attachment of the system of the present invention provides selective programmable control of the movements of a pick-up spindle during work piece pickup, back machining, and dropping operations.

Abstract: A clutch arrangement for a multi-spindle machine includes a starting clutch 12 and a machine brake clutch 14 positioned on a starting clutch drive shaft 16. A high speed clutch 18 and a snubbing clutch 22 are positioned on a long worm drive shaft 20. All clutches are pneumatically operated by solenoid valves 40, 42, 44 and 46 and electrically actuated by electrical circuit 60. When the multi-spindle machine shifts from a high speed to a low speed, the present invention activates the machine brake clutch 14 and snubbing clutch 22 for a predetermined time period to cause the drive train gears to slow down allowing synchronous meshing with the low speed drive train of the multi-spindle machine to enable a reduction in machine cycle time.

Abstract: A threading clutch apparatus 40 and method for a multi-spindle machine that is pneumatically actuated and electronically controlled. The threading clutch apparatus 40 shifts from a low speed side 48 to a high speed side 46 at a selected time interval. An electrical circuit 106 is in electrical communication with a limit switch 112 which is operatively connected to a threading tool. At a desired time in the machining process, limit switch 112 is tripped and electrically starts a count down timer 114,116 to energize solenoid valve 102 for selectively activating the high speed side 46 of the threading clutch apparatus 40. The threading clutch 40 allows varying static torque capacity with variable pressure control to eliminate clutch adjustment and electronically monitoring tap depth adjustment.

Abstract: A retrofit system for a multi-spindle machine which includes a brake clutch (72), a feed clutch (70), and a high speed clutch (68) which are incorporated into the drive train gear layout of the multi-spindle machine. All three clutches are controlled by an electrical control circuit which includes a timer (80). When the multi-spindle machine shifts from high speed to low speed the control system activates the brake clutch for a short time period set in the timer, which causes the drive train gears to quickly slow down, allowing synchronous meshing with the low speed drive train of the multi-spindle machine and enabling a reduction in machine cycle time.

Abstract: The machine control system for a multi-spindle machine (10) includes a controller (42). The controller is operative to avoid machine down time by shutting down operation of the main drive motor (12) of the multi-spindle machine responsive to malfunctions as detected by a plurality of sensors. A controller is also readily programmable to modify the high and low shift points to optimize cycle times. The controller is further connectable to an administrative workstation (188) which includes a database (190) for producing a variety of analytical reports related to performance of the machine.