Apparatus and method for manufacturing a slotted torque tube
US5243167A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 16, 1992 |
| Grant date | Sep 7, 1993 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 16, 2012 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB23H7/06
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
Apparatus for manufacturing a plurality of slotted metal tubes simultaneously from a plurality of tubular members by the use of an EDM machine having a movable table which is movable in at least one direction of x and y directions, a moving wire traveling in a z direction with respect to the movable table and a computer for controlling the movement of the wire in the z direction and the movement of the movable table. The apparatus is comprised of first and second fixtures for receiving and holding a plurality of tubular members so that they are disposed in a plane in the z axis adjacent the moving wire. The first fixture is adapted to be mounted upon the table for movement with the table. A platform is provided for mounting the second fixture for movement in x and y directions. Electrical contact is made to the tubular members. The second fixture has a vise for gripping each of the tubular members, a secondary y drive is provided for moving the second fixture carried by the platform in a y direction independent of movement of the table in a y direction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.