Abstract: A fixture for machine tools and the like includes a base member and first and second workpiece support units that are movably connected to the base member and define a space therebetween. The fixture includes a drive assembly that is operably connected to the workpiece support units to move the first and second workpiece support units towards and away from one another. The workpiece support units each include a wedge member extending toward the space between the workpiece support units. The wedge members include opposed engagement surfaces that taper towards one another for engaging slots in opposite ends of a workpiece. Each of the workpiece support units also includes a clamp for clamping a workpiece as it engages the wedge members.

Abstract: A die having various features such as spring pockets and mounting provisions for a lifter bar that can be utilized to make a variety of dies. The dies may include pockets or other mounting features that provide for mounting replaceable plates that can be machined for mounting of die forming and cutting steels and other die components. The die shoe may include an array of pockets or blind holes for mounting nitrogen springs or the like for operation of forming steels and the like. One or more openings may be drilled in the replaceable plates above the pockets selected to receive nitrogen springs, with the remaining unused pockets being covered by the replaceable plate. The replaceable plate and pre-formed spring pockets thereby permit the die to be readily adapted for a particular die. The replaceable plates may be removed, and a replacement plate may be installed as needed for a new die.

Abstract: A fixture for machine tools and the like includes a base member and first and second workpiece support units that are movably connected to the base member and define a space therebetween. The fixture includes a drive assembly that is operably connected to the workpiece support units to move the first and second workpiece support units towards and away from one another. The workpiece support units each include a wedge member extending toward the space between the workpiece support units. The wedge members include opposed engagement surfaces that taper towards one another for engaging slots in opposite ends of a workpiece. Each of the workpiece support units also includes a clamp for clamping a workpiece as it engages the wedge members.

Abstract: A fixture for machine tools and the like includes a base member and first and second workpiece support units that are movably connected to the base member and define a space therebetween. The fixture includes a drive assembly that is operably connected to the workpiece support units to move the first and second workpiece support units towards and away from one another. The workpiece support units each include a wedge member extending toward the space between the workpiece support units. The wedge members include opposed engagement surfaces that taper towards one another for engaging slots in opposite ends of a workpiece. Each of the workpiece support units also includes a clamp for clamping a workpiece as it engages the wedge members.

Abstract: A true length collet chuck assembly is adapted to receive and actuate a quick change, segmented collet having a flange extending radially outwardly from the outer surface of the collet adjacent a rear face of the collet. The collet chuck assembly comprises a chuck body having a longitudinally extending bore defined by an inwardly facing, cylindrical surface on the chuck body. The inwardly facing, cylindrical surface on the chuck body defines a circumferential groove for receiving the radially outwardly extending flange on the collet to thereby restrain the collet against axial movement relative to the chuck body. A collet closing sleeve, disposed within the chuck body and axially displaceable relative thereto, has an outwardly flaring interior surface adapted to engage an outwardly flaring surface on the collet.

Abstract: A true length collet chuck assembly is adapted to receive and actuate a quick change, segmented collet having a flange extending radially outwardly from the outer surface of the collet adjacent a rear face of the collet. The collet chuck assembly comprises a chuck body having a longitudinally extending bore defined by an inwardly facing, cylindrical surface on the chuck body. The inwardly facing, cylindrical surface on the chuck body defines a circumferential groove for receiving the radially outwardly extending flange on the collet to thereby restrain the collet against axial movement relative to the chuck body. A collet closing sleeve, disposed within the chuck body and axially displaceable relative thereto, has an outwardly flaring interior surface adapted to engage an outwardly flaring surface on the collet.