Abstract: A system and method for controlling movement of a transfer system (22) between operable and serviceable positions in a manufacturing system such as a stamping press (10) includes a crank arm (60) and a plurality of swing arms (66, 76). The swing arms (66, 76) connect the crank arm (60) to the transfer system (22) and define a plurality of pivot connections with each other so as to allow controlled movement of the transfer system (22) between operable and serviceable positions when the crank arm (60) is driven. A plurality of gears (82, 84, 86, 88) including a reference gear (82) fixed to the stamping press (10) and an object gear (84) fixed to the transfer system (22) are used to control transfer system attitude during movement. Drive means (94, 96) interconnect the plurality of gears (82, 84, 86, 88) to rotate the transfer system (22) by rotating the object gear (84) together with the transfer system (22) as the crank arm (60) is driven.

Abstract: A die transfer system for transferring workpieces between successive die stations in a stamping press includes elongated finger bars having spaced fingers for engaging workpieces at successive die stations, a first drive module for reciprocating the finger bar laterally into and out of engagement with the workpieces at the die stations, and a second or transfer drive module for reciprocating the finger bar longitudinally for transferring workpieces between the successive die stations. The transfer drive module includes a pair of laterally spaced transfer drive mechanisms respectively positioned adjacent to the ends of the finger bars, and a bridge that extends between the transfer drive mechanisms. A pair of carriages are mounted on the bridge and coupled by lead screws to respective stepper motors for adjusting position of each carriage laterally of the bridge independently of each other. Each carriage is coupled to an associated finger bar by a quick-disconnect coupling arrangement.