Machine tool with automatic tool change function
US4409721A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 17, 1981 |
| Grant date | Oct 18, 1983 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 17, 2001 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T483/1767
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A machine tool with an automatic tool change function wherein a rotatable tool spindle carries a movable key engageable with either of a pair of key-ways formed on a tool. A tool changing arm, serving as a tool support device, friction-rotatably supports at least one tool for being selectively inserted within and removed from the tool spindle. When tool changing operation is to be performed, rotation of the spindle is changed to a predetermined speed permitting key-engagement. A first confirming device is provided for confirming the fact that the spindle has reached a first predetermined position during rotation thereof. The tool change arm is then operated to remove the tool from the spindle in response to the first confirming device. A second confirming device is provided for confirming that the spindle has reached a second predetermined position during rotation thereof. Prior to insertion of the tool into the spindle, the movable key is withdrawn, and in response to the second confirming device the movable key is moved outwardly into engagement with the predetermined key-way of the first and second key-ways.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.