Patent · US Expired

Automated machine installation and method

US4621410A · kind A · utility

34Cited by
36References
244Claims
0Family size

Assignees

Inventor

Key dates

Filing dateSep 30, 1982
Grant dateNov 11, 1986
Priority date
Expiry dateSep 30, 2002

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T483/179
  • WIPO fieldMachine tools
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

A system comprising a plurality of complementary numerically controlled machine tools in which different work-pieces are each subjected to appropriate selected machining operations on selected machine tools in a selected order by appropriate delivery of common form pallets loaded with the workpieces. Transporters deliver pallets between the machine tools, a storage rack, and work-setting stations where work-pieces, automatically delivered in bins from a bin store, are loaded on pallets. Tool magazines are delivered between a rack and the machine tools by a transporter. Transport and machining operations are computer controled, and monitors feed back signals indicative of location of pallets, tool magazines, and bins in the system.

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