Abstract: The specification discloses an electrical discharge machining (EDM) system and method capable of defining an unlimited number of waveforms. The system and method define logical waveforms using a plurality of time slices, each having a voltage and a width. The time slices are applied to the system power section where they are amplified and delivered to the electrode.
Abstract: An electrical discharge machining spindle for releasably holding an electrode includes a spindle body, a movable sleeve surrounding the spindle body, first and second contact elements for clamping an electrode inserted therebetween, and a locking element that is actuated by the sleeve to selectively apply pressure to at least one of the first and second contact elements to clamp the electrode.
Abstract: An electrical discharge machining (EDM) system and method including (a) an electrode supported by a spindle, (b) a spindle support, (c) a workpiece holder, (d) a gap voltage measurement device, and (d) a single integrated controller. The single integrated controller is responsive to the measured gap voltage to control all of the spindle, the spindle support, and the workpiece holder, providing improved speed, accuracy, and part quality.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
March 19, 2015
Date of Patent:
May 24, 2016
Assignee:
JOHNSON TECHNOLOGY, INC.
Inventors:
Kim Michael Grotenhuis, Dale Duncan Palmer, Chad Michael Vandenbosch
Abstract: An electrical discharge machining (EDM) system including an automated electrode changer storing a plurality of electrodes for dispensing one at a time for insertion into the spindle of the system. The automated changer includes an electrode storage unit, an electrode insertion unit, and an electrode removal unit. The specification further discloses a method of electrical discharge machining utilizing, for example, the automated electrode changer.