Abstract: A semifinished part feed unit having an indexing table for transferring a stack of semifinished parts from a loading station to a pickoff station; a robot handling fixture for transferring one part at a time from the pickoff station to a press; a detecting device for detecting the characteristics and the position assumed by the stack in the pickoff station; and a control and processing system for generating control signals for the handling fixture in response to input signals from the detecting device.

Abstract: A unit for feeding semifinished parts, whereby a carriage travelling along a straight slideway supports a rectangular table in turn supporting a parallelepiped stack of semifinished parts and which is floatable by means of an air cushion. The carriage presents a device for positioning the stack and comprising four articulated arms, each fitted to the carriage and having, on its free end, a locating element designed to contact the lateral walls of the stack.

Abstract: In an apparatus for manipulating laser beams with mirrors, the beam is caused to emerge substantially in alignment with the initial direction of the incoming beam by deflecting the incoming beam with a first mirror whose position is selectively adjustable to a second mirror which preferably has a parabolic surface, and then from the second mirror the beam is directed to a third, flat mirror whose position is also adjustable so that the beam is focussed on the region to be treated in a position substantially in alignment with the initial direction of propagation. An improved system for supplying screening gas to the region under treatment is also disclosed.

Abstract: An automatic tool-changing device for industrial robots includes a gripper member located at the end of the robot arm and a coupling flange to which a tool is fixed. The gripper member has radially-movable engagement teeth adapted for insertion in projecting appendages carried by the flange, upon automatic clamping of the tool. The movement of the engagement teeth is driven by a pressurized-fluid jack housed in the gripper member.

Abstract: An industrial robot with five degrees of freedom comprises a plurality of mirrors and internal ducts for guiding a laser beam intended for use in welding or cutting metal parts. The laser guide system is intended for installation with the minimum of adaptation on industrial robots used, for example, for resistance welding.