Abstract: This machine tool such as CNC edge grinding apparatus is an apparatus for machining small glass parts such as a side view mirror. For small parts, grind time can exceed by a considerable amount the load/unload time. This machine greatly increases the output of the system. It minimizes the waiting time by providing an auxiliary station for simultaneous unloading/loading while grinding. Controls integrate multiple axes, which are part of the holding mechanisms, with the linear axes of the grind head, to grind the part.

Abstract: The high speed rack loader/unloader system uses a two arm loading machine to allow flat pieces of material to be loaded on a horizontal conveyor from a vertical rack or to a vertical rack from a horizontal conveyor. The two arms are mounted on a single input, two output right angle gearbox. The outputs of the gearbox rotate in opposite directions so one arm is rotating up while the other arm is rotating down. The two arms are mounted at a roughly 90 degree angle from each other so one arm is at the conveyor while the other arm is at the rack. Each arm has a mechanism to allow the length of the arms to be positioned to four different lengths. Full extension, long extension, short extension and no extension. At the end of the arms are vacuum cups to hold the flat material during transfer. The rack is loaded on a moveable platform that indexes as pieces of material are added or removed.