Workpiece loader/unloader system
US6439371B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 14, 2001 |
| Grant date | Aug 27, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 14, 2021 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC B)Performing Operations; Transporting
- CPC primaryB21D43/105
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A workpiece loader/unloader system for an industrial machine, such as a hemmer, is disclosed. The system includes a single pocket shuttle movable between an extended position in which the shuttle overlies a work station on the industrial machine, and a retracted position in which the shuttle is laterally spaced from the work station. A gripper on the shuttle selectively engages and supports the workpiece after the workpiece has been machined at the work station. A loader manipulator is movable between a preload position in which the loader supports an unmachined workpiece at a position laterally spaced from the work station, and a load position in which the loader manipulator overlies the work station. An actuator moves the loader manipulator between the preload and load position. Furthermore, the loader manipulator mechanically engages the shuttle and simultaneously moves the shuttle from its extended position and to its retracted position as the loader manipulator moves from its preload and to its load position. A passive system, such as a spring, returns the shuttle from its retracted and to its extended position.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.