Abstract: A valve seat insert inspection system generally comprises a camera which inspects the inner periphery of the valve seat insert adjacent the cylinder head. The camera detects the difference reflectivity of any gap between the valve seat insert and cylinder head. The image from the camera is analyzed in software to determine the size of the gap. A warning is indicated if the gap exceeds a predetermined threshold.

Abstract: A drive apparatus for a simultaneous operation machine includes a plurality of pulleys and drive belts in a unique orientation to simultaneously drive a plurality of spindles. A first outer spindle is driven about a first axis of rotation to perform a first operation such as machining. An inner spindle is disposed within the outer spindle and is driven about a second axis which is offset from and parallel to the first axis to simultaneously perform a second operation, such as grinding. Additionally, the drive apparatus is capable of rotating the second spindle about the second axis while orbiting about the first axis, and simultaneously rotating of the first spindle about the first axis. Preferably, a single motor is provided for driving both of the outer and inner spindles.

Abstract: An apparatus for installing a snap ring comprises an inner press assembly which is spring biased downwardly from an upper press assembly. The inner press assembly includes a plurality of arms having first ends having an abutment surface adjacent a notch. During installation of the snap ring, the upper press assembly and inner press assembly move toward a component which receives the snap ring, such that the first ends of the arms abut the snap ring. The snap ring is thus moved downwardly into the component. If the snap ring expands radially outwardly into the snap ring groove, the abutment moves past the snap ring and the notches receive the snap ring. If the snap ring does not expand sufficiently radially outwardly into the snap ring groove, the abutment surface of the arms contacts the snap ring, thereby resisting downward movement of the inner press assembly. There is then relative axial movement between the inner press assembly and the upper press assembly.

Abstract: A tool detection system combines a sensor nozzle with an ultrasonic transducer capable of propagating and detecting ultrasonic waves. A wave is propagated in a coolant fluid stream directed at a tool to be monitored. A control unit powers the ultrasonic transducer and contains circuits for analyzing the ultrasonic waves detected by the ultrasonic transducer. The control compares the actual time between the propagation of an ultrasonic wave and detection of an echo wave reflected from the tool, to an expected time. An alarm is generated when the tool is not present as indicated by the actual time exceeding the expected time. An alarm signal generated by the alarm generator either stops the tool or signals an operator that the tool is absent.

Abstract: An improved tool includes a milling tool rotatable about an axis, and a coaxially mounted grinding wheel positioned slightly axially towards a workpiece from the milling tool. The milling tool provides rough finish on a workpiece, and the grinding tool follows, providing finish grinding. The present invention recognizes that the grinding tool will be deflected away from the workpiece at high speed due to centrifugal forces. The present invention positions the milling tool relative to the grinding wheel at a location that compensates for the expected deflection of the grinding wheel, and achieves the desired amount of grinding. In further features of this invention, the phenomena of deflection of the grinding wheel due to increased speed is utilized to compensate for wear on the milling tool.