Machining fixture with self-contained hydraulics
US8028976B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 15, 2007 |
| Grant date | Oct 4, 2011 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 4, 2030 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T29/49998
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A new arrangement for machining parts is disclosed. The parts to be machined are mounted on fixture plates on a fixture. Using a stationary hydraulic line, hydraulic equipment is then pressurized by a pump within the fixture. The pump is mechanically powered by a separate (and disconnectable) power source. A rotatable coupling is attached to the pump. It receives a spindle from a CNC machine, enabling the machine to activate the pump by rotating the spindle while the spindle is received in the coupling. The coupling has axially extending prongs that form slots that accommodates the spindle. The prongs have ends that taper inwardly toward the slots. The spindle is also used to actuate a pressure release valve. The fixture also has at least four angled work faces and an access face that separates two of those faces. In operation, parts are first mounted on the fixture plates. The fixture is then moved to a work area, where the spindle actuates the pump, pressuring clamps that lock the parts in position. The parts are then machined, and the spindle then actuates the pressure release valve to release the pressure in the clamps. The fixture is then moved out of the work area, and the pa…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.