Abstract: Spaced cutting tools, each having a plurality of linear axes and a rotational axis, are supported with a conveyor carrying successive parts past the tools. The tools include positioning motors and are positioned by a computer driven system including a controller and a tool program for positioning the tools to sequentially cut each part. Separate computer boards each include a memory unit and a CPU for coupling to individual positioning motors for each tool. The controller downloads the program for particular axes to the board for the tools. A positioning sensor is coupled to each tool axes and connected to the computer input for monitoring each tool position. All tools are simultaneously positioned using an initial fast constant speed feed followed by a varying slow speed, with a closed loop control, within a fixed time period.

Abstract: A woodworking apparatus includes a computer based control unit for absolute positioning of tool units located in longitudinally spaced relationship to one or both sides of a conveyor. Absolute position sensors are connected to each axis of tool movement. Each axis has a separate permanent magnetic motor to position the tool on the corresponding axis. A multiplexing board selectively connects each sensor to the computer and a multiplexing position motor drive board selectively connects the corresponding motor in a closed loop absolute position control. Each position sensor includes spaced Hall cells secured to a movable sensor head, with limit signals hardwired via the multiplexing board directly to the control system. The PM motor is a low cost motor which rapidly drives the tool unit in accordance with the output of the sensor. The motor drive system includes a fast drive mode in an open loop for rapidly moving the several tool units and sequentially to slowly move the tools to the final position.

Abstract: A production casting line includes a foam pattern former producing destructible foam patterns for the forming of cast parts. A pattern clusters inventory station is provided immediately adjacent to the process line having a plurality of different preformed foam pattern clusters which are immediately available for introduction and insertion into the production line by interposing of the same into the process line. A substantial number of different patterns are stored. The foam patterns are stable, can be inventoried for long periods and are relatively inexpensive. The versatility with the inventoried patterns increases the operating efficiency and reduce the overall cost of the manufacturing operation. The cast line includes flasks within the pattern clusters and are mounted at a receiving station. Sand is compacted about the foam pattern.