Abstract: A machine tool/parts sorter assembly includes a machine tool having a frame and a workstation at which multiple parts are cut from a workpiece as it is moved in a horizontal plane relative to the workstation. A sorter is coupled with the machine tool frame for separately guiding different parts to different discharge areas adjacent the machine tool. The sorter includes a guide member adjacent the workstation for receiving the parts from the workstation, a pair of spaced, downwardly inclined guide chutes for discharging parts to separate discharge areas, and an actuator for selectively moving the guide member to discharge parts thereon into the guide chutes.

Abstract: A workpiece being processed on a machine tool is moved by control devices to the tool head or work station of the machine mechanically or automatically. A stop defines an area around the work station from which the holding devices must be kept to prevent damage. As soon as a holding device reaches the limit of the danger zone around the tool head, it is switched into a setting releasing the workpiece and moves into a position away from the work station. The machine has a switching element connected to each holding device to be so movable, and the switching element has a switching slide which is acted on by an applied force and is supported in a first position until it abuts the stop when one slide position connects the energy source to the drive of the holding device to move it away from the stop. In another slide position, the connection to the energy source is broken and the holding device returns to the workpiece holding position.

Abstract: A machine tool center includes a machine tool, a tool storage magazine storing a multiplicity of tools, a workpiece storage area, a robot assembly, and a control system for controlling the operation of the robot assembly and of the machine tool. The robot assembly has a telescoping arm supported on a body which is movable relative to its base, and at the outer end of the arm is a gripper member which is pivotally supported intermediate its length and includes gripping elements at each of its ends. A workpiece engageable member has grippable elements thereon which can be received in the gripper member, and the gripping member will also grip tool members for movement between the tool magazine and the machine tool. Various drive units are provided for effecting movement of the various elements of the robot body. The gripper member thus serves the dual function of engaging the tooling and of engaging the workpiece engaging member to effect movement of the workpieces from the machine tool to the storage area.