Abstract: A fixture for a milling machine to position and manipulate related work pieces. The fixture has a first sub fixture powered to rotate a rotary plate and a second sub fixture. The fixture includes one of a first plate fixture and a second plate fixture for the mounting of work pieces. The rotary plate is mounted to the first sub fixture such that the rotary plate can be rotated by the first sub fixture. The rotary plate attaches to one of the first plate fixture and the second plate fixture. The rotary plate includes a first precision surface adapted for mounting of the first plate fixture and a second precision surface adapted for mounting of the second plate fixture. The fixture includes a tailstock plate mounted to the second sub fixture. The tailstock plate attaches to one of the first plate fixture and the second plate fixture.

Abstract: An articulating head that includes a linear movement assembly. There is a pivot plate that includes a first connection point. There is a pivot arm rotatably attached to the pivot plate. The pivot arm has a second connection point. There is a linear movement assembly mounted to and between the first connection point of the pivot plate and the second connection point of the pivot arm to cause rotation of the pivot arm about the pivot plate. The linear movement assembly comprises a threaded rod mounted as a screw, a nut which threads onto the screw and a motor interconnected to one of the screw and nut to cause motion between the screw and the nut. The screw and the nut are mounted between the pivot plate and the pivot arm, whereby the motion induced between the screw and nut causes the pivot arm to rotate about the pivot plate.

Abstract: A tilt table for use with a milling machine. The tilt table includes at least one pivot support attachable to the milling machine. The tilt table includes a table top pivotally attached to the at least one pivot support. The table top has two ends. The tilt table includes at least one movement assembly attached to at least one end of the table top to move the table top about the at least one pivot support.

Abstract: The present invention provides a visual drag diagnostic apparatus, software and method for CNC machines. The present invention creates a visual display or plot of the drag values associated with the CNC machine's moving components along each axis of movement of a tool holder or table. The plot created by the present invention provides a diagnostic tool to evaluate the operational status of the CNC machine, which is quick to perform and easy to understand by the operator. Knowing the drag values allows an operator to foresee problems with tool holder or table movement before making a product, thereby saving time and money during machining operations.