Abstract: A machine alignment compensation actuator system is disclosed. The system is designed to selectively orient the tool head of a machine tool to maintain the tool along a desirable axis of alignment. The system includes a framework and a machine slide assembly configured to hold the tool. An actuator assembly having a plurality of actuators is disposed between the machine slide assembly and the framework. Each actuator is disposed at a unique location to permit selective reorientation of the machine slide assembly and tool with respect to the framework.

Abstract: A magazine (10) for a machine tool (not shown) comprises a number of links (12) joined together by pins (14) to form a closed chain (16). A socket (32) is formed in each link for receiving a tool (34) to position the tool center line (36) midway between and in parallel relation with, the axes (40) of the two pins (14) which join the link to adjacent links in the chain (16). A frame (18) supports the chain (16) and received tools (34) for movement along a path of travel to selectively position the tools, the path including sections (26) of little or no curvature, and sections (28, 30) of substantial curvature. To maintain tool movement precisely along the path of travel, and thus prevent contact between tools in adjacent links (12) when the adjacent links travel around a section (28, 30) of substantial curvature, guide bearings (54) are joined to the links and constrained to move along a channel (56) which is in parallel relation with the desired chain path of travel.

Abstract: A gear change mechanism for a machine tool in which shifting forks with sliding gears and constant mesh gearing using clutch and/or brake shifting is eliminated. A shiftable gear mechanism is presented in a gear train for meshing engagement with any one of a plurality of gears for selectively varying the speed of the machine spindle. The shiftable gear mechanism includes a first rotatable shaft and a second shaft connected to a cluster gear positioned to slide and rotate the second shaft in relation to the first shaft. A cylinder apparatus is connected coaxially to the second shaft to slide the second shaft in a reciprocating manner along the first shaft so as to move the cluster gear and vary the gear ratios between the cluster gear and the other gears in the gear train. A bearing assembly is also utilized in conjunction with the second slidable shaft so as to prevent any sliding action between the cluster gear and the shifting mechanism.