Patent · US Expired

Machine tool with automatic tool change

US4356621A · kind A · utility

13Cited by
8References
10Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateDec 15, 1980
Grant dateNov 2, 1982
Priority date
Expiry dateDec 15, 2000

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T483/1767
  • WIPO fieldMachine tools
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

In a machine tool with an automatic tool change function, a rotatable tool spindle carries a movable key engageable with a key-way formed on a tool. A tool changing arm, serving as a tool support device, friction-rotatably supports at least one tool for selectively inserting and removing same into and from the tool spindle. When a tool change operation is to be performed, rotation of the spindle is changed into a predetermined speed permitting key-engagement. A detecting device is provided for detecting movement of the movable key to confirm engagement of the movable key with the key-way of the tool. A clamp device clamps the tool inserted into the spindle in response to the detecting device. After the tool is clamped on the spindle, rotation of the spindle is changed into a machining speed. A confirming device is provided for confirming that the spindle is reached at a predetermined angular position during rotation thereof. The tool change arm is operated to remove the tool from the spindle in response to the confirming device.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.