Abstract: There is provided an automatic tool changer which, in a precision roll turning lathe which feeds a tool post at a high speed, can automatically change a tool, such as a cutting tool, without stopping the machine, thereby enabling highly efficient ultra-Precision machining of a roll mold for molding of a large-sized plastic sheet.

Abstract: A tool turret, with a base body (1) which is attached or is to be attached to a machine tool and which defines a turret axis (13) around which the tool disk (7) is pivoted on the base body (1) and which disk has a plurality of tool stations (45) which are distributed on its periphery and which, by turning the tool disk (7), can be set into at least one working position at a time, in which a tool drive (31, 35), located within the tool disk (7) with its output-side gear part (35) which can be turned around an axis of rotation which is radial to the turret axis (13), by coupling engages the tool-side coupling part for driving at least one tool which is located on the tool station (45) which is aligned to the working position, is characterized in that the output-side gear part (35) is located in the tool disk (7) to be pivotable around the turret axis (13), and that in the tool disk (7) there is a clutch (47) which can be switched between a first operating position in which the output-side gear part (35) for piv

Abstract: The present invention proposes a system of actuation of drive coupling to engage and disengage the drive to rotary tool holders in turrets, which are commonly used in turning centers, machining centers and lathes. The system of the present invention includes a driving means, a coupling means and an actuation means to enable smooth transmission of actuation force and modular design of the system. By using a standard off-the-shelf motor in conjunction with a cam, capable of delivering smooth movement to a linkage, the system allows for the engagement and disengagement of the coupling mechanism from the drive-end of the tools.

Abstract: An automated machine tool is provided and includes a frame having a first workpiece transfer station at a first location on the frame; at least two self-contained processing units, each of the units including structure for holding the workpiece for processing and structure for performing a process on the workpiece; structure for sequentially indexing the processing units to the first workpiece transfer station for transferring workpieces to and from each of the processing units; a shared tool storing device; a first cutting tool transfer device for transferring cutting tools to and from the processing units; and a second cutting tool transfer device for transferring cutting tools between the first transfer device and the storing device.

Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for developing a complete set of all admissible Type I and Type II fixture designs for a workpiece. The fixture processor generates the set of all admissible designs based on geometric access constraints and expected applied forces on the workpiece. For instance, the fixture processor may generate a set of admissible fixture designs for first, second and third locators placed in an array of holes on a fixture plate and a translating clamp attached to the fixture plate for contacting the workpiece. In another instance, a fixture vise is used in which first, second, third and fourth locators are used and first and second fixture jaws are tightened to secure the workpiece. The fixture process also ranks the set of admissible fixture designs according to a predetermined quality metric so that the optimal fixture design for the desired purpose may be identified from the set of all admissible fixture designs.

Abstract: A machining center composed of a plurality of assemblies, with each assembly including a machine base. Each machine base includes a compound slide as well as guides for guiding a movement of the compound slide. A motor driven main spindle is adapted to be attached to the compound slide and is movable along a plurality of axes, with facilities being provided for collecting swarf and coolant. A working area housing is attached to the machine structure with the housing including a container adapted to be mounted on the machine structure as a module to house control elements and power supply. Openings are provided for enabling a collection and removal of swarf with additional openings being provided for enabling an accommodation of a storage and transportation unit. A probe is incorporated in a machine control for enabling a checking of machined workpieces, and a sheet metal cover, fastened to the compound slide, includes a hole penetrated by the motor spindle with a spindle attachment.

Abstract: A computerized numerical control automatic complex lathe has a main spindle for gripping and rotating a work to be machined. A first machining tool performs a main machining of the work. A turret tool rest has an outer peripheral surface for holding a set of secondary tools along the outer peripheral surface thereof. The turret tool rest is selectively indexable to bring a selected secondary machining tool into a position to effect a secondary machining of the work and is selectively movable relative to the work to enable the selected secondary machining tool to perform the secondary machining of the work. The turret tool rest further includes a plurality of tool holders for holding a plurality of secondary tools. A back spindle is disposable on a side of the work opposite the main spindle for holding a selected secondary machining tool selected from the plurality of secondary tools.