Tool stocker, machine tool system, and tool damage detecting apparatus
US8672820B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 3, 2009 |
| Grant date | Mar 18, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jan 15, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10T483/1891
- WIPO fieldMachine tools
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A tool stocker includes main stockers for holding a plurality of tools detachably mounted on a main spindle for machining a workpiece, an auxiliary stocker for holding and transferring tools to and from the main stockers, and a tool transfer mechanism for transferring tools between the main stockers and the auxiliary stocker. The auxiliary stocker includes a plurality of tool pods for removably supporting the tools therein, a rail in sliding engagement with outer surfaces of the tool pods, a chain for moving the tool pods in sliding engagement with the rail, and a motor for actuating the chain. The rail has a recess defined therein in alignment with the tool transfer mechanism, such that the tools transferred by the tool transfer mechanism pass through the recess.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.