ES338577A1 - Transfer machine - Google Patents

Abstract

A transfer machine has a base structure supporting a plurality of separable bed segments 11 which together define a closed circuit for a series of work-carrying platens 13 which occupy the whole circuit, are slidable over the segments 11, and are interconnected for simultaneous indexing with relative play to permit accurate individual location relative to tool heads 12. The bed segments 11 have a channel or groove 22 into which project sets of guide rollers 85, 88 mounted on the underside of the platens. A helically grooved cam 101 mounted in bed segment 11a co-operates with lower depending rollers 86 on the platens to index the entire train thereof to the approximate positions required. Hydraulically-operated plungers 14 project into holes in the platens to locate them accurately and individually in each work station and hydraulicallyoperated clamps 15, 16 act simultaneously and equally on the outer and inner flange portions of the platens to clamp them to the bed segments 11. Compressed air is supplied during indexing to recesses in the slide surface of the bed segments to facilitate sliding of the platens thereover. The platens are interconnected by bolts 73 having spring members 173, 174 under the bolt head and nut to allow for sufficient relative play between the platens. Plates 79, 80 also interconnect the platens and are bolted thereto through clearance holes to allow for this desired degree of play. Plate 79 acts to protect the joints between the platens from swarf. Swarf shoots 19 and a discharge conveyer 20 are provided in the bed. Further tool heads may be mounted around the circuit on suitable pedestals 105. Straight bed sections may be incorporated in the circuit though this necessitates removal of the central guide roller from each platen.