Flexible, self conforming, workpiece support system
US6029966A · kind A · utility
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 13, 1998 |
| Grant date | Feb 29, 2000 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 13, 2018 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB25B1/2421
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A method and apparatus are disclosed for a flexible support system using elongated support members to support a face of a workpiece. The flexible support members are arranged through at least one plane of perforated material, where the elongated support members are raised to the maximum designed position, the shafts of the elongated support members are subjected to a resistive force, the position of the elongated support members are adjusted by the contacting forces applied by bringing the workpiece and the flexible support assembly together, then applying a locking force to secure the elongated support members where the elongated support members can sustain the loads applied during the operation onto the workpiece. Additionally, methods are disclosed which allow the elongated support members to optionally drop upon reaching a designed position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.