Abstract: A transducer arrangement provides a feedback signal which indicates the position of a first part relative to a base and when a second movable part is positioned adjacent the first part the transducer provides a signal indicating the spacing between the two parts. Specifically the transducer provides for spacing control between the two halves of a mold mounted in a press wherein a crosshead moves a substantial distance and carries one part of the mold (the upper half) relative to the lower mold part. Hydraulic actuators act on the lower part of the mold to provide the molding force when the mold parts are close together. The transducer is mounted in a housing and arranged to provide a signal used for controlling the hydraulic actuators to control the spacing of the two molds parts until the mold parts are separated a known amount, after which the hydraulic actuators are controlled by sensing the spacing of one mold half relative to the base of the press.

Abstract: A transducer arrangement provides a feedback signal which indicates the position of a first part relative to a base and when a second movable part is positioned adjacent the first part the transducer provides a signal indicating the spacing between the two parts. Specifically the transducer provides for spacing control between the two halves of a mold mounted in a press wherein a crosshead moves a substantial distance and carries one part of the mold (the upper half) relative to the lower mold part. Hydraulic actuators act on the lower part of the mold to provide the molding force when the mold parts are close together. The transducer is mounted in a housing and arranged to provide a signal used for controlling the hydraulic actuators to control the spacing of the two molds parts unitl the mold parts are separated a known amount, after which the hydraulic actuators are controlled by sensing the spacing of one mold half relative to the base of the press.

Abstract: The present invention relates to single actuator blanking and draw pad force control for a drawing press, which includes a unique swivel for the hold down pad comprising a confined elastomeric member which has high axial stiffness, but relatively low rotational or pivoting stiffness about an axis normal to the actuator axis. Further, the pad can be combined with air pressure for holding a sheet of material during the blanking and drawing operations.

Abstract: The present invention relates to single actuator blanking and draw pad force control for a drawing press, which includes a unique swivel for the hold down pad comprising a confined elastomeric member which has high axial stiffness, but relatively low rotational or pivoting stiffness about an axis normal to the actuator axis. Further, the pad can be combined with air pressure for holding a sheet of material during the blanking and drawing operations.