MXPA98001257A - Multiples hu cnc lathe - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a multi-bone CNC lathe comprising: a base, a frame assembly mounted on the base and including first and second separate, rigidly interconnected sub-frames defining separate parallel alignment surfaces; plurality of spindles, each of which comprises a collar for receiving and rotating a handle section about a spindle axis, elements for indexing the spindles about a central axis and in sequential alignment with each of a plurality of spindle stations. work located at equally spaced intervals around the central axis, a plurality of identical internal tamper slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the first subframe, the internal tamper slides comprise means for receiving and retaining a cutting tool; of identical first servoactivators, each one to selectively advance and retract one of the inner tamper slides and the cutting tool thereof along an individual axis to one of the work stations, a plurality of identical external tamper slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the other subframe and comprising means for receiving and retaining a cutting tool, a plurality of identical second servoactivators, each to selectively advance and retract one of the external tamper slides and the cutting tool thereof in perpendicular relation with an individual axis to one of the work stations, a plurality of identical saddles, each supporting one of the external tamper slides and the second individual servo activator thereto, and a plurality of identical third servo activators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the silletas and the external tamper slide, and the second servoactivator mounted on it along a trajectory that which extends parallel to the individual axis to one of the work stations

Description

CNC MILLING OF MULTIPLE HUSES TECHNICAL FIELD This invention relates generally to machine tools, and more particularly to a multi-spindle CNC lathe which is particularly adapted for use in conjunction with JIT and SPC manufacturing philosophies.

BACKGROUND AND COMPENDIUM OF THE INVENTION All machine tools, including drills, milling machines, grinders, are characterized by a common objective: the manufacture of large numbers of identical finished parts, under conditions of extreme accuracy and maximum economy. In itself, the interest in, and the development of machine tools has been parallel with the advance of the industrial revolution. Traditionally, machine tools were operated by machinists who were among the most highly experienced and the most highly paid of all workers. More recently, however, the machine tools have been adapted to a procedure known as numerical control by computer, CNC, through which the operation of machine tools is regulated by computers or other programmable controllers. In accordance with the CNC technique, the dimensions, surface finishes, and other characteristics of the part to be manufactured, are supplied in the form of sequential operation instructions, which are used by the CNC device to regulate the operation of the machine -tool. This allows the completion of the finished parts more uniformly and more quickly than has ever been possible before. The adaptation of single-spindle lathes, milling machines, and devices similar to CNC techniques has been very successful. However, in the case of multi-spindle machine tools, previous attempts for automation have mainly involved the adaptation of cams, gears, and other components comprising these machines for servo control. Probably because the approach has been one of adapting old designs to new techniques, the effort to automate the operation of multiple spindle lathes by means of the CNC operation has been largely unfortunate. The present invention comprises a multi spindle lathe which is fully adapted for the CNC operation. In accordance with the broader aspects of the invention, a plurality of spindles are placed at separate points towards a central axis. Each spindle has a collar that receives a handle length, and rotates the handle to a spindle axis. An indexing mechanism is provided to selectively place the spindles in work stations located at equally spaced points towards the central axis. Each work station comprises an internal tool slide, adapted to receive a cutting tool, and to advance the cutting tool towards and away from the rotary handle, under the action of a servomechanism. An external tool slide is also provided for each work station, and is adapted to advance a cutting tool both toward and away from, and parallel to, the axis of rotation of the handle. In each work station the handle is rotated rather than formed, meaning that the cutting tools of the individual work stations can be used to perform a variety of very different machining operations. The multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention is quickly adapted for use in conjunction with the manufacturing philosophies of both Just-in-Time (JIT) and Statistical Process Control (SPC). In accordance with JIT, only the exact number of parts of parts required to complete a particular assembly operation are ordered at any time. This eliminates the investment in inventory that is necessary when ordering large numbers of parts at the same time, and also eliminates the possibility of previously ordered parts becoming obsolete due to a design change. The machine tool of the present invention is adapted to JIT because the economic lot is smaller. This is because the machine tools that incorporate the invention do not require the change of the cutting tools used in the different work stations, in order to change the nature of the parts of parts that are being manufactured, and because the assembly time is dramatically reduced. In accordance with SPC, parts of finished parts are compared to a previously determined standard for the purpose of keeping the dimensions of epart in the center of the tolerance range. If the dimensions of the parts being manufactured start to vary from the center of the tolerance range, due to wear of the cutting tool or something else, adjustments are immediately instituted in the manufacturing process, in order to maintain the tolerances . The SPC is easily practiced in the mne tool of the present invention, since all the cutting tools are placed by servomechanisms which, in turn, are under computer numerical control.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS A more complete understanding of the invention can be had by reference to the following Detailed Description, when taken in conjunction with the accompanying Drawings, wherein: Figure 1 is a front view of a multi-CNC lathe spindles embodying the present invention. Figure 2 is a front view of the base of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of Figure 1, in which certain parts have been broken more clearly, to illustrate certain features of the invention. Figure 3 is a top view of the base of Figure 2. Figure 4 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating the frame and certain operating components of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of Figure 1. Figure 5 is an elongation of a portion of Figure 4. Figure 6 is a front view of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention, similar to Figure 1, in which the covers of the apparatus have been removed. Figure 7 is an illustration of certain components of the multi-spindle CNC lathe in Figure 6, taken along lines 7-7 of Figure 6. Figure 8 is an illustration of certain components of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of Figure 6, taken along lines 8-8 in Figure 6. Figure 9 is an elongation of a portion of Figure 8. Figure 10 is another illustration of certain components shown in Figure 9. Figure 11 is a side view of one of the internal slide assemblies of the CNC lathe multiple spindles of Figure 6, in which certain components have been broken more clearly, to illustrate certain features of the invention. Figure 12 is an illustration of certain components of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of Figure 6, taken along line 12-12 of Figure 6. Figure 13 is an illustration of one of the outer slide assemblies of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention. Figure 14 is a sectional view taken along line 14-14 of Figure 13. Figure 15 is a sectional view taken along line 15-15 of Figure 14, further illustrating the sliding assemblies. of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention. Figure 16 is a longitudinal sectional view illustrating also the outer slide assemblies of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention. Figure 17 is a sectional view taken along line 17-17 of Figure 13.

Figure 18 is an elongation of a certain portion of the apparatus illustrated in Figure 17. Figure 19 is an illustration of certain components of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention, taken along line 19-19 of the Figure 6 Figure 20 is an illustration of one of the spindles of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention, showing the component parts thereof in a first orientation. Figure 21 is a view similar to Figure 20, showing the component parts of the spindle in a second orientation. Figure 22 is an illustration similar to Figure 20, showing the component parts thereof in a third orientation. Figure 23 is a sectional view, illustrating the activator of the filler piece of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention. Figure 24 is a sectional view taken along line 24-24 of Figure 25, and illustrating the spindle assembly carrier of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention. Figure 25 is an end view of the spindle assembly carrier of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention.

Figure 26 is an elongated illustration of one of the castings comprising the frame of the present invention. Figure 27 is an illustration of one of the handle carrier tubes of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention. Figure 28 is an elongated sectional view further illustrating the handle carrier tubes of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention. Figure 29 is a front view illustrating the handle carrier assembly of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention. Figure 30 is a partial sectional view illustrating the indexing mechanism of the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present invention. Figure 31 is a partial sectional view illustrating a tool fastener accessory, useful in conjunction with the multi-spindle CNC lathe of the present inven. Figure 32 is another illustration of the three-point moug system of the multi-spindle CNC lathe frame of the present inven. Figure 33 is still another illustration of the three-point moug system of the multi-spindle CNC lathe frame of the present inven.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION Referring now to the Drawings, and particularly to Figure 1 thereof, there is shown a multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 embodying the present invention. The lathe 50 includes a base 52 that also serves as a coolant reservoir. A housing 54 extends upwardly from the base 52, and serves to house and protect both the mechanical components and the production components of the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50. A computer numerical control system (CNC) 56 is located at one end of the housing 54. The CNC 56 system is preferably of the type sold by the General Electric Company as, and identified by that company as the Power Mate Motion Control Systems, and may include a monitoring screen of computer 58 and / or a plurality of status lights 60. A keyboard 62 may be used to perform computer control during the operation of the lathe 50. The CNC system 56 may also include a conventional control panel 64. The housing 54 of the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 also includes a sliding access door 66. The door 66 is slidably supported in a slideway 68, and is provided with an inspection window 70. The production components of the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 are located behind the door 66 when it is in the closed position, as illustrated in Figure 1, and can be seen through the inspection window 70 thereof. . A hinged door 72 provides access to the mechanical components of the lathe 50. Normally the access ports 74 are enclosed by covers 76 that can be removed. A cover 78 housing the handles of the winch handle 50 extends to the left (FIG. 1) from the main portion of the housing 54. Referring now to FIGS. 2 and 3, the base 52 of the lathe 50 is shown in greater detail. Multi-spindle CNC The base 52 is formed entirely of steel plates that are interconnected by welding. The base 52 is provided with a plurality of mounting blocks 80, and a plurality of mounting holes 82, which function to join the operation components of the lathe 50 to the base 52. In addition to supporting and positioning the operating components of the lathe 50, the base 52 serves as a coolant reservoir. The refrigerant entering the base 52 is initially contained by a plate 84 defining a level '86 of refrigerant. The burrs caused by the operation of the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 enter the base 52 through a port 88, and are received in a burr conveyor 90, located on the plate 84. The conveyor 90 conveys the burrs off the base 52, after which the burrs fall into a burr receiver container 92, under the action of gravity. During the operation of the lathe 50, the coolant flows constantly over a lip 94 located at one end of the plate 84. The coolant flows from the lip 94 in and through a basket 96, which functions to filter the coolant, removing by means of same any waste that has not been transported out of the base 52 by the burr conveyor 90. Preferably, two baskets 96 are used in the operation of the lathe, one located in the working position as defined by a bracket 98, and the other placed in a drainage platform 100 that allows the refrigerant to drain out of the basket 96, before the removal of waste from it. The refrigerant flowing through the basket 96 located in the working position as defined by the bracket 98, flows along a path defined by the arrows 102, and is returned to the operation components of the lathe 50 by a pump (not shown) that removes the coolant from the base in the opening 103. This flow path maintains the uniform temperature of the base 52, and eliminates static points that can cause the refrigerant to become rancid. As best shown in Figure 4, the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 includes a frame 104 which comprises an important feature of the invention. The frame 104 includes precision castings 106 and 108, which function to support and align the operating components of the lathe 50. The casting piece 106 comprises the opposite walls 110 and 112, and the casting piece 106 comprises the opposite walls. 114 and 116. The walls 110 and 112 of the casting piece 106 define the opposing surfaces 120 and 122, respectively. The surfaces 120 and 122 are flat and smooth by grinding, using Blanchard grinding or a functionally equivalent process. The walls 114 and 116 comprising the casting 108 define the opposing surfaces 124 and 126 which are processed in an identical manner, and are therefore equally flat, smooth, and parallel. The surfaces 122 and 124 define the aligning surfaces of the frame 104 of the lathe 50. The frame 104 also comprises four tension rods 128 that are machined to engage, in order to maintain a precise parallelism between the surface 122 of the piece of casting 106, and the surface 124 of the casting piece 108. Each tension rod 128 includes an elongated central portion 130, which extends to a portion 132 of reduced diameter, which in turn extends to a threaded end member 134 . In the lower part of the casting piece 108, a sleeve 136 is mounted in each portion 132 of reduced diameter, and received in the aligned openings 138 and 140, formed in the casting piece 108, and formed in a block 142 of mounting. A plurality of nuts 144 are threadably engaged each with a threaded end portion 134 of one of the tension rods 128. The nuts 144 engage the rollers 146, which in turn engage the compression members 148. In this way, after precise tightening of the nuts 146, using, for example, a torque wrench, the castings 106 and 108, comprising the frame 104, are securely positioned with respect to each other. At the upper ends of the castings 106 and 108, the reduced end portions of the rods 128 extend through the openings 138 'formed in the castings 106 and 108. Likewise, the nuts 144 engage the rollers 146, which directly engage the castings 106 and 108. The mounting blocks 142 and 142 'are secured to the base 52 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 152. The mounting blocks 142 engage the mounting blocks 80 of the base 52 to accurately position the frame 104 with respect thereto. An important aspect of the present invention comprises the use of the three-point mounting system, which comprises the two mounting blocks 142 and 142 'for mounting the frame 104 to the base 52. By this means any possibility of overturning, wobbling is eliminated , or misalignment between the base 52 and the frame 104. Figures 32 and 33 also illustrate the three-point mounting system that supports the frame 104 on the base 52. Each mounting block 142 engages a mounting block 80 of the base 52 to support the casting piece 108 in two parts. In contrast, the mounting block 142 'bridges between two mounting blocks 80 and supports the casting piece 106 at a single central point, thereby providing support at three points for the frame 10. referring again to Figure 4, a pin 150 extends through the openings 139 aligned in the casting part 106, and an opening 140 'formed in the center of the mounting block 142'. A nut 144 is threadably engaged within the end portion 134 of the spigot 150, and engages a pulley 146 engaging a compression member 148. A spindle drive motor 154 is mounted on one end of the frame 104 of the lathe 50. Multi-spindle CNC The drive motor of the spindle is preferably an electric motor of alternating current, of variable speed. The motor 154 is supported by an engine mounting adapter 156, which in turn is supported by a journal housing 158. The journal housing 158 is secured to the wall 110 of the casting 106 of the frame 104, by a plurality of threaded fasteners 160. The engine 154 has an output shaft 162 that extends to a flexible copy 164. The flexible copy 164 in turn drives a drive arrow 166 of the spindle. The drive shaft 166 is rotatably supported by a bearing 168, which is retained in the bearing housing 158 by an end plate 170 which in turn is secured by threaded fasteners 172. A separator 174 and a lock nut 176 complete the drive shaft / journal assembly. Referring to Figures 4 and 5, the drive shaft 166 extends through a piston 180 which is secured to a tubular ram 182 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 183. The piston 180 is mounted on a cylinder 184 which is located relative to the wall 112 of the casting piece 106, by a precision pin 186, and is secured to the wall 112 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 188. At one end of the piston 180 is defined a first chamber 190 of hydraulic fluid, and is insulated by a plurality of seals 192. The chamber 190 is closed by an end plate 194, which is secured to the cylinder 184 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 196 . The end plate 194 is provided with a port 198 for inlet and outlet of hydraulic fluid.

At the opposite end of the piston 180 is located a second chamber 200 of hydraulic fluid, and is insulated by a plurality of seals 202. The chamber 200 is provided with a port 204 for inlet and outlet of hydraulic fluid formed in the cylinder 184. this way, after the selective application of hydraulic pressure to one of the chambers 190 or 200, and the simultaneous release of hydraulic pressure from the opposite chamber, the piston 180 and the tubular ram 182 are caused to move longitudinally relative to the cylinder 184. The end of the tubular ram 182 away from the piston 180 is provided with a flange 206. A retainer ring 208 engages the flange 206, and a plurality of threaded fasteners 210 secure the retainer ring to an adapter 212. The adapter 212 supports a journal 216 that rotatably supports the arrow 166. The threaded fasteners 210 and the retainer ring 208 also function to secure the tubular tamper 182 to an assembly 218 spindle carrier. In Figures 6 to 19 -including the working components of the CNC multi-spindle toro 50. As is clearly shown, for example, in Figures 7, 8, and 9, the particular multi-spindle CNC lathe 50, as illustrated in the Drawings and described herein, comprises an eight-spindle device. However, as those skilled in the art will appreciate, the present invention can be quickly adapted to be used in conjunction with multi-spindle CNC lathes having any desired number of spindles, as dictated by the requirements of a particular application of the invention. In Figures 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 inclusive, the internal slide assemblies 220 comprising the multi-spindle CNC toro 50 are illustrated. Referring particularly to Figures 7 and 11, each internal slide assembly 220 comprises a servomechanism that includes a motor 224 that is secured to a motor mounting plate 226, by a plurality of threaded fasteners 228. The motor mounting plate 226 is, in turn, secured to the wall 110 of the casting part 106 comprising the frame 104 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 234. The motor 224 has an output arrow 236 that is secured to a drive pulley 238. Around the drive pulley 238 and a driven pulley 242, a drive belt 240 extends. The driven pulley 242 is mounted on a spacer 244 which, in turn, is secured to an adapter 246. Therefore, on the operation of the motor 224, the adapter 246 is rotated under the action of the motor 224, the arrow 236 of output, the drive pulley 238, the belt 240, the driven pulley 242, and the separator 244.

The adapter 246 is rotatably supported on the plate 110 by the journals 248. The journals 248 are supported in a journal housing 250 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 252, which extend through the mounting plate 230. A ball nut 254 is mounted on an adapter 246, and secured thereto by a plurality of threaded fasteners 256. A ball screw 258 extends through and is operatively engaged with the ball nut 254. The ball screw 258 is secured against rotation relative to the ball nut 254. Therefore, upon activation of the motor 224 to rotate the adapter 246 and the ball nut 254, the ball screw 258 selectively extends or retracts. An objective adapter 260 extends from one end of the ball screw 258 and supports a target 262. A detector bracket 264 is secured to the mounting plate 226 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 266. The proximity sensors 268, 270, and 272 are mounted on the bracket 264. Upon alignment of the lens 262 therewith, the proximity sensors 268, 270, and 272 are activated to generate a signal indicative of the positioning of the screw 258 of ball relative to the frame 104 of the lathe 50. The proximity sensor 270 is indicative of the normal positioning of the ball screw 258, the proximity sensor 272 is indicative of the fully retracted positioning of the ball screw 258, and the proximity detector 268 is indicative of the fully extended position of the ball screw 258. The 224 engine operates under the control of the CNC system 54 to place the ball screw 258. The outputs of the proximity sensors 268, 270, and 272 are directed to the CNC system 54, which in turn operates the motor 224 to properly position the ball screw 258, in accordance with the program being run. The ball screw 258 extends through a lower ball screw housing 274. The lower case 274 is secured to the wall 112 of the casting part 106 of the frame 104 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 276. A rod cleaner 278 is provided at the distal end of the lower case 274. The end of the ball screw 258 away from the lens adapter 260 is provided with a threaded portion 280. A push bracket 282 is secured to the end of the ball screw 258 by a threaded threaded nylon insert nut 284. with the end 280 of the ball screw 258. A flat washer 286 is located between the push bracket 282 and the ball screw 258. A slide body 292 is secured to the push bracket 282 for alternation under the action of the ball screw 258 and the ball nut 254 which, in turn, is driven by the motor 224 under the control of the CNC 54 system. at one end of the slider body 292 the actuating keys 294 are mounted, and secured thereto by a plurality of threaded fasteners 296. The slide body 292 is provided with a conventional central bore 298, and is adapted to receive a conventional tool holder, which in turn receives a conventional tool such as a drill, a reamer, and the like. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the fact that in the machine tool industry reference is made to the tool slides of the type shown in Figures 7, 8, 9, 10, and 11 inclusive, described hereinabove. in conjunction with them, as rammers of tamper. Those skilled in the art will also note the fact that the slide body 292 and the tool holder received therein comprise static devices that are adapted to provide final work functions on the rotary handle. The internal tool slide assembly 220 is also adapted for use with active slide components, adapted to perform final work functions such as threading, profile work, etc., and also to perform the pick-up function after it has been cut. the piece of work. Figure 31 illustrates a toolholder assembly 700 that can be used in place of the passive toolholder assembly of Figure 11 in the internal slide assembly of the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 of the present invention, if desired. The collar tool holder assembly 700 includes a tool holder receiver 702 that is rotatably supported in a subframe 704 by the journal bearings 706. A motor 708 has an outlet 710 which drives a drive pulley 712. A band 714 extends around the drive pulley 712 and a driven pulley 716 which is operatively connected to the tool holder receiver 702. In the use of the apparatus 700, a conventional tool holder is placed in the bore 720 of the toolholder receiver 702. The tool holder, in turn, receives a conventional tool. By means of motor 708, the tool is adapted for rotation as it is advanced towards and away from the rotating handle. By this means, the tool can be used to provide, for example, the threading of the handle. Referring to Figure 9, each slide body 292 has a pair of guide blocks 304 secured thereto by the threaded fasteners 306. The guide blocks 304 are received in correspondingly shaped, hardened and precision ground guides formed in a guide body 308, and defined by the components 307 and 314. The sliding movement of the guide blocks 304, and therefore the slide bodies 292, is facilitated by the positioning of polytetrafluoroethylene layers 310 between the guide blocks 304 and the corresponding guides. The construction of the guide body 308 will be better understood by simultaneous reference to Figures 5 and 9. The component parts 307 of the guide body 308 comprising the guides are secured to the cylinder 184 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 312. The component parts 314 are secured by a plurality of threaded fasteners 316. A cover plate 318 is mounted on the end of the guide body 308 away from the piston 180, and is secured by a plurality of threaded fasteners 320. The refrigerant is discharged from the flexible nozzle assemblies 322 to the work area. The nozzle assemblies 322 are selectively mounted in the discharge openings 324 provided in the end plate 318. The openings 324 extend to a passage 326. The coolant is directed into the passage 326 to discharge from the flexible nozzle assemblies 322 through an inlet port 328 formed in the cylinder 184.

Referring now to Figures 12 to 19, inclusive, the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 includes a plurality of external slide assemblies 330. Each outer slide assembly 330 is supported on the wall 114 of the casting part 108 of the frame 104, by a support bracket 332, which is secured to the wall 114 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 334. Each outer slide assembly 310 is adapted to support and position a cutting tool 336 relative to the rotating handle. The outer slide assemblies 330 operate to move the cutting tools 336 both toward and away from the rotating handle, and toward and away from the wall 114 of the frame 104, ie, parallel to the handle. Referring to Figures 13 and 15, each outer slide assembly 330, referred to in the industry as a saddle, includes a housing 340 which is guided by a circular guide 342 and a rectangular guide 344. The guide 342 is mounted on the housing 340 and is slidably supported by the journals 343 mounted on the bracket 332. The guide 344 is mounted on the bracket 332. Referring to Figure 15, a servomechanism including a motor 346 mounted on an engine mounting plate 350 and secured thereto by a plurality of threaded fasteners (not shown). The motor mounting plate 350 is supported, in turn, on a mounting plate 352 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 354. The mounting plate 352 is mounted on the wall 116. The motor 346 has an output arrow 356 which is connected to a drive pulley 358. The drive pulley 358 drives a belt 360 which, in turn, drives a driven pulley 362. The driven pulley 362 is secured to an adapter 364 by a spacer 366. The adapter 364 is rotatably supported on the plate 116 by a journal 368 which is mounted on a journal housing 370. The journal housing 370 is secured to the plate 352 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 372. A ball nut 374 is secured to the adapter 364 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 376. Therefore, upon activation of the motor 346 operating through the drive shaft 356, the drive pulley 358, the drive belt 360, and the drive pulley 362, the adapter 366, and the separator 364, the ball nut 374 for rotating relative to plate 116. Ball screw 378 extends through, and is operably connected to ball nut 374. An objective adapter 380 is secured to one end of the ball screw 378, and has a target 382 mounted on the distal end thereof. A plurality of proximity sensors 384, 386, and 388 are mounted on a support plate 390, which is secured to the motor mounting plate 350, by a plurality of threaded fasteners 392. When the objective 382 is aligned with one of the proximity detectors 384, 386, or 388, a signal indicative of positioning of the housing 340 of the external slide assembly relative to the plate 114 of the frame 104 is generated. The end of the screw 378 of ball away from the objective adapter 380 comprises a threaded end portion 394. The ball screw 378 is secured to the housing 340 of the external slide assembly 330 by a nylon insert safety nut 396. Therefore, upon operation of the motor 346, the ball nut 374 functions to activate the ball screw 378 to locate the housing 340 relative to the wall 114. Referring to Figure 16, the housing 340 is supported for sliding movement. towards and away from the wall 114 by the guide members 342 and 344. Referring to Figures 1 and 15, the motor 346 operates under the control of the CNC system 56 to position the ball screw 378. The outputs of the proximity sensors 384, 384, and 388 are directed to the CNC system 56 which, in turn, operates the motor 346 to place the ball screw 378 in accordance with the program being run. as best shown in Figures 16 and 17, each outer slide assembly also comprises a servomechanism that includes a motor 400 mounted on the end of the housing 340 away from the cutting tool 336. The motor 400 has an output arrow 402 that is connected to a flexible copy 404, which in turn is connected to one end of the ball screw 406. The ball screw 406 is rotatably supported by the journals 408 and 410 mounted on the housing 340. A ball nut 412 is mounted on and operatively connected to the ball screw 406. The ball nut 412 is secured to a tool slide 414 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 416. The tool slide is slidably supported in the housing or saddle 340. Therefore, upon activation of the motor 400 to rotate the ball screw 406, the ball nut 412 functions to move the slide 414 and therefore, the cutting tool 336 inwardly and outwardly relative to the housing 340. Those skilled in the art will appreciate the fact that in the machine tool industry reference is made to the tool slides of the type illustrated in Figures 15, 16 and 17, and described hereinabove in conjunction with the same as tamper slides.

The motor 400 operates under the control of the CNC system 56. The motor 400 and the slider 414 have associated therewith a target and a plurality of proximity sensors, like the target 382 and the detectors 384, 386, and 388 associated with the ball screw 378. The CNC 56 system receives signals from the detectors to allow control over the positioning of the cutting tool 336. Referring particularly to Figure 18, there is shown a quick disconnect copy for the cutting tool 336. The cutting tool 336 is supported on a mounting bar 416 positioned inside the slide 414. The cutting forces resulting from the engagement of the cutting tool 336 with the rotating handle are taken by a reaction block 418 which is secured to the slide 414 by means of a threaded fastener 419. The mounting bar 416, and therefore the cutting tool 336, are normally secured in the position shown in Figure 18, by a retaining bar 420 having a ramp portion 422. A pin 424 is positioned between the ramp portion 422 and the mounting bar 416, and functions to retain the mounting bar 416, and therefore the cutting tool 336, in place. Normally a spring 426 retains the bar 420 in place. A stop 428 is mounted in the housing 340 at the remote end of the slide 414. When the slide 414 is fully retracted under the action of the ball nut 412 and the ball screw 406, the latch bar 402 engages the mole 428 This action compresses the spring 426, alleviating the pressure imposed on the spigot 424 by the ramp portion 422. This, in turn, allows the cutting tool 336 and the mounting bar 416 to disengage from the slide 414. The multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 of the present invention also includes a plurality of spindles 430 of the type illustrated in the Figures. 20, 21, and 22. Each spindle 430 is rotatably supported on the spindle carrier 218 of Figure 4, by the journals 432 and 434, and is retained therein by the threaded fasteners 436 and 438. Each spindle 430 comprises a main body portion 440 having a planetary gear 442 mounted thereon. The spacers 444 and 446 are interposed between the planetary gear 442 and the bearings 432 and 434, respectively. A collar receiving hole 448 extends through the main body 440 and therein is disposed a conventional collar 450 that opens itself. A conventional collar alignment mechanism 452 may be placed on the collar receiving end of the bore 448. A drive wrench 454 ensures proper alignment between the collar and the spindle. The spindles 430 of the present invention comprise a single collar opening mechanism, closed collar, and collar release. A stuffing piece 456 is slidably supported on a filler piece guide 458, and includes a ratchet 460 engaging a slot 462 formed in a collar driver 464 mounted on the spindle 430. The collar actuator 464 includes a retainer 466 which is secured by threaded fasteners 468. A spring actuator 470 is slidably supported within the main body 440 of the spindle 430. A spring-activated retainer 472 is slidably supported on the spring activator 470. The closed position of the collar is illustrated in Figure 20. At this point, the stuffing piece 456 has been activated to place the collar driver 464 in its extreme backward position relative to the collar 450. A series of wedges 474 have been forced downward. This action moves a 476 slider backwardly. , compressing the compensation rollers 478, by means of which a section of a handle to be worked (not shown) is safely retained in the collar 450. A ratchet 480 in the slider 472 disengages from the retainer 466 of spring, by means of which a plunger 482 extends completely, under the action of the spring 484. In Figure 21 the filling piece 456 is activated to move the spring activator 464 towards the planetary gear 442. The wedges 474 move upwards under the action of the compensation rollers 478 and the centrifugal force. The retainer 466 approaches but does not fully engage the ratchet 480, whereby the tang 482 remains in its position. At this point, the collar 450 that opens to itself is released enough to allow the handle extending therethrough to be repositioned and / or to receive a new handle section having the same dimensions as the handle. handle previously engaged. In Figure 22 the filler piece 456 is activated to move the spring actuator 464 to its extreme position. At this point, the spring 484 is substantially compressed due to the activation of the pin 482 by the spring activator 470 and the ratchet gear 480 with the catch 466. This aligns a catch 486 with a retaining ball 488 to allow the ball 488 is moved upwards, thereby enabling the removal of collar 450. The removal of collar 450 can be effected either manually or automatically through the use of a conventional collar removal and replacement apparatus. Figure 23 illustrates a filler piece activator assembly 490, useful in the practice of the present invention, for operating the filler piece '460 shown in Figure 20. The filler piece activator assembly 490 is mounted on the wall 116 of the casting piece 108, and is supported therein by a mounting plate 492 which is secured to the wall 116 by a plurality of threaded fasteners 494. A filler piece actuator 496 is secured to a movable housing 498, which is slidably supported on a guide rod 500. The guide rod 500 is secured to the mounting plate 492 by a threaded fastener 502. A piston 504 is fixedly mounted on the guide rod 500, and is provided with the seals 506. An inner piston 508 is slidably supported on the guide rod 500, and is provided with the seals 510. An outer piston 512 is also slidably supported on the guide rod 500, and is provided with the seals 514. The pistons 504, 508, and 512 divide the housing 498 into four chambers 516, 518, 520, and 522. The ports 526, 528, 530, and 532 hydraulic fluid inlet and outlet extend to chambers 516, 518, 520, and 522, respectively. The chamber 516 is secured against leakage by the seals 534, and the chamber 522 is secured against leakage by the seals 536. Therefore,, those skilled in the art will understand that by selectively admitting pressurized hydraulic fluid to one of the chambers 516, 518, 520, and 522, and by simultaneously draining the hydraulic fluid from the remaining chambers, the housing can be selectively located 498, and therefore the filler piece actuator 496, in any of four positions relative to the guide rod 500 and the wall 116. In this way, the 490 assembly of the filler piece actuator of Figure 23 functions to place the filler piece 460 of Figure 20, selectively engaging, disengaging, or releasing, by the same, the collars 450 of the multi spindle CNC lathe 50 of the present invention. The fourth position of the insert part activator assembly 490 is used to allow indexing of the spindle carrier 218. Referring to Figure 19, the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 is shown as having eight filler pieces 456, eight filler piece guides 458, eight fasteners 460, and eight filler piece actuator assemblies 490. This is to demonstrate the use of those components in any of the work stations, and in as many numbers as are necessary for the particular application of the invention. Usually, no more than two filler pieces and filler piece activator assemblies will be needed. Also shown in Figure 24 is the spindle carrier 218 of Figure 4. A multi-tooth engaging portion 540, having teeth 542 formed at equally spaced intervals around it, is secured between the opposing portions 544 and 546. of the body. The coupling portion 540 is aligned by means of a bolt 548, and secured in place by means of threaded fasteners 550. The portions 544 and 546 of the body are secured together, in turn, by the threaded fasteners 552. The spindle bearing journals 434, illustrated in Figures 20, 21, and 22 are received in a journal bearing cavity 554, formed in the body member 546. The journals 434 are secured in place by a plate 560 that is secured in place by the threaded fasteners 436. Referring again to Figure 24, the portions 544 and 546 of the body are preferably secured in place prior to machining of the bearing cavities 554 and 556, thereby ensuring accurate alignment between the cavities. It will be noted that it is occasionally necessary to disassemble the portions 544 and 546 of the body. For this purpose, an alignment ring 562 having extended profile portions 564 is provided. The profile portions comprise segments of approximately 60 degrees which, in turn, are separated by vacant segments of approximately 60 degrees. By means of the profile portions 564 of the alignment ring 562, the portions 544 and 546 of the body of the spindle carrier 218 can be separated and reassembled, without loss of alignment between the bearing cavities 554 and 558. Referring to »Figures 4, 20-22 and 24, the sun gear 570 is rotatably supported inside the spindle carrier 218. The sun gear 570 is rotatably supported by the journals 572 which are retained by a plate 574. The plate 574 is retained, in turn, by the threaded fasteners 576. The gear 570 Sol has an internal slot 578 which engages in the internal slot 579 of the drive shaft 166 of FIG. 4. In this way the sun gear is rotated under the action of the spindle drive motor 154. The gear 570 Sun engages the planetary gears 442 of the spindles 430, whereby the motor 154 operates to rotate the spindles at a predetermined speed. The spindle carrier 218 is secured to the tubular ram 182 by means of the threaded fasteners 210 which mesh the complementary threaded apertures 580 formed in the portion 546 of the body. Thus, on the activation of the piston 180, the positioning of the spindle carrier 218 is changed longitudinally with respect to the frame 104. Referring to Figures 4, 25 and 26, the casting piece 108 comprising the frame 104 has a portion 582 of coupling with multiple teeth, secured thereto by threaded fasteners 586. The coupling portion 582 comprises a plurality of teeth 588 which are inverse to the teeth 542 of the coupling portion 540 of the spindle carrier 218. Therefore, when the piston 180 is activated to move the tamper 182 towards the casting piece 108, the teeth 542 of the spindle carrier 218 engage the teeth 588 of the engaging portion 582 in the casting piece 108, to secure the carrier 218 of spindles against rotation relative to the frame 104 of the multi-spindle CNC 50 lathe. Conversely, when the piston 180 is activated to move the tamper 182 away from the casting piece 108, the teeth 542 on the spindle carrier 218 disengage from the teeth 588 of the engaging portion 582 in the casting part 108. , after which the spindle carrier 218 is adapted for indexing relative to the frame 104 of the lathe 50. The frame 104 is provided with a support member 590. The support member 590 has an accurately machined internal surface 592, which rotatably supports the spindle carrier 218 for indexing. To this end, the lower segment of the surface 592 is provided with a layer of polytetrafluoroethylene 594 to facilitate rotation of the spindle carrier 218 relative to the support ring 590. The multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 is provided with a plurality of form carrier assemblies 600, which are best illustrated in Figures 27 and 28. Each manner carrier assembly 600 includes an internal socket 602, which extends through one of the spindles 430, and is supported therein for rotation with the collar 450 received at, and rotated by the spindle 430. Each tube 602 is secured to a nut 604 that is threadably engaged with the spindle 430 , thereby securing the tube 602 for rotation with the collar 450. The use of a handle carrier tube, adapted for rotation with the handle received therein, comprises an important feature of the present invention, and is a deviation from the previous technique. Along a significant portion of its length, tube 602 extends through a stationary tube 606. The tube 606 is provided with a conventional closure 608 located at the end thereof, away from the spindle 430. The particular closure 608 illustrated in Figure 27 is of the bayonet variety, and is provided with a handle 610 that moves inwardly. to release the closure 608 for insertion of the handle into and through the tubes 606 and 602. At all other times the closure 608 remains positioned as shown in Figure 27 to seal the interior of the tube 606 against refrigerant leakage therefrom. The rotating tube 602 has a plurality of openings 612 formed therein to allow the flow of refrigerant out of the tube 602 into the tube 606. The tube 606 extends to a seal 614 which prevents refrigerant leaks from the end of the tube 606 , away from the closure 608. A secondary seal 616 is mounted on the seal 614, and extends along the tube 602 also to prevent refrigerant leakage. Each tube 606 is also provided with fittings 618 and 620 which function to admit refrigerant into the tube 606. Whenever it is desired to advance the position of the handle located inside of, and rotating with the tube 602, the pressure of the refrigerant inside the tube will increase. 606. It will be understood that one end of the handle is located inside the assembly comprising the tubes 602 and 606, and is therefore subject to the application of an end force, which is the result of the increase in the pressure of the coolant. Nevertheless, the opposite end of the handle is located inside the collar, and therefore is not subject to the increased pressure of the coolant inside the tubes 602 and 606. By this means an end force is provided on the handle, which pushes the handle through the collar 450 without requiring the use of independent handle advance mechanisms. The presence of the coolant inside the tubes 602 and 606 also provides significant vibration damping and noise reduction as compared to prior art handle advance mechanisms. Figure 29 illustrates the carriage mechanism of the handle of the CNC multi-spindle 50 lathe. The handle carrier inner tube 602 and the stationary tube 606 of the handle carrier assembly 600 are supported on a carriage assembly 622. The rings 624 are provided at each end of a barrel housing 626. Rolls 628 are provided in the carriage assembly 622, and the rings 624 mesh. By this means the carriage assembly 622, and therefore the handle carrier assembly 600, is adapted for revolution to the central axis 632 of the CNC lathe 50. of multiple spindles. An indexing mechanism 640 for the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 is illustrated in Figures 29 and 30. A motor 642 drives a separator 643 having an output 644 that drives a drive pulley 646. A band 648 extends around the drive pulley 646, and functions to activate a pulley 650 driven under the action of the engine 642 and the separator 643. The driven pulley 650 is connected to a rotating plate 652 which is connected to the assembly 622 of carriage through a plurality of threaded fasteners 658. Therefore, upon activation of the motor 642 and spacer 643, the carriage assembly 622 and the handle carrier tubes mounted thereon are rotated around the shaft 632. A spider 656 is mounted to the assembly 622 for rotation with the same, under the action of the motor 642 and the separator 643. The spider 656 comprises a plurality of pins 660, each having opposite spherical ends 662. The spherical ends 662 of the pins 660 are received in the holes 664, thereby accommodating a predetermined amount of misalignment between the assembly 622 and the connector 666 which is secured to the spindle carrier 218 by means of a plurality of fasteners 668 threaded. Therefore, upon activation the motor 642 functions not only to rotate the assembly 622, but also to rotate the spindle carrier assembly 218 concurrently therewith.

OPERATION In the operation of the multi spindle CNC lathe 50, one or more of the seals 608 is disengaged to allow the insertion of the handle into the tube 606 and the tube 602 of the handle carrier assembly. The activator 490 of the filler piece is then activated to operate the filling piece 456 to open one or more of the collars 450. The handle is initially manually inserted. After that, the pressure of the coolant inside the pipes 602 and 606 of the handle carrier assembly increases selectively, after which the handle is advanced through the corresponding collar 450, until it is properly positioned. The indexing of the handle in relation to the tools of the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 starts with the activation of the piston 180 to move the tamper 182 to the right (FIGS. 4 and 5), disengaging the same with the teeth 542 of FIG. the multi-tooth engaging portion 540 of the spindle carrier 218 (Figure 24), of the teeth 588 of the coupling portion 582 that is secured to the frame 104 (Figure 26). The indexing engine 642 (Figure 30) is then activated to separate the carriage assembly 622, and therefore the tubes 602 and 606, and also the spindle carrier 218 having the spindles 430 and the collars 450 mounted thereon. -mo. This action causes the handle, the tubes 602 and 606, the spindles 430, and the collars 450 to rotate toward the axis 632 of the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50, until the handle is properly positioned relative to the frame (Figures 27 and 29). ). The internal slide assemblies 220 of the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 are mounted on the guide body 308 which is secured to the wall 112 of the casting part 106 of the frame 104 (Figure 11). Therefore, as the handle is separated under the action of motor 642, the inner slide assemblies do not move, but rather remain stationary and in position to engage the next individual piece of the handle that is aligned therewith. . . Similarly, the external slide assemblies 330 are supported on support brackets 332 which are secured to the wall 114 of the casting part 108 of the frame 104 by the threaded fasteners 334 (Figure 12). Therefore, the outer slide assemblies 330 do not move as the handle separates under the action of the motor 642, but rather remain positioned for engagement with the next handle piece that is aligned therewith. An important feature of the present invention comprises the fact that the external slide assemblies 330 are adapted to move the cutting tools 336 not only towards and away from, that is, perpendicular to the rotary handle, but also along the length of, that is, parallel to the handle. The cutting tools 336 do not comprise forming tools, but rather comprise metal working tools for general purposes, which can be used to form any desired shape on the external surfaces of the handle parts. Therefore, it is not necessary to remove and replace the tools 336 when the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 of the present invention is adapted to manufacture a different product. This in turn means that the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 of the present invention quickly adapts to the Just In Time manufacturing philosophy, JIT, in the sense that the lathe 50 can be used to manufacture a small number of parts and have the parts available at the precise moment when they are needed in subsequent manufacturing operations. The multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 of the present invention also quickly adapts to the manufacturing philosophy of Statistical Process Control, or SPC, by which the wear and tear of the tools used in the inner slide assemblies 220 and the external slide assemblies 330, and is adjusted by activating the slide assemblies 220 and 330 to ensure manufacturing tolerances that are well within the acceptable range. After all the tools comprising the inner slide assemblies 220, and all the tools comprising the outer slide assemblies 330, have finished their respective functions, the tools of the rotating handle are disengaged. At this point the piston 180 is activated to disengage the teeth 542 from the carrier 218 of the spindles of the teeth 588, after which the motor 642 is activated to index the handle in alignment with the next successive work station. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, one or more of the spindles comprising the multi-spindle CNC lathe 50 comprises a cutting station, where the finished work of the handle is disengaged. After cutting, the handle is selectively advanced through the respective collars under the action of the increased pressure in the coolant in the associated pipes 602 and 606. All component parts of the multi-spindle CNC lathe operate under the control of the system CNC 56. In this way, the use of cutting tools for general purposes is facilitated, rather than forming tools, which in turn facilitates the JIT manufacturing philosophy. Likewise, the CNC system facilitates the SPC manufacturing philosophy by constantly repositioning the cutting tools to accommodate wear. Although the preferred embodiments of the invention have been illustrated in the accompanying drawings, and described in the above Detailed Description, it will be understood that the invention is not limited to the described embodiments, but is capable of numerous rearrangements, modifications, and substitutions of parts and elements, without departing from the spirit of the invention.

Claims (15)

1. A multi-spindle CNC lathe comprising: a base; a frame assembly mounted on the base and including first and second separate, rigidly interconnected subframes defining separate, parallel alignment surfaces; a plurality of spindles, each comprising a collar for receiving and rotating a handle portion toward a spindle axis; elements for indexing the spindles towards a central axis and in sequential alignment with each of a plurality of work stations located at equally spaced intervals towards the central axis; a plurality of identical internal tamper slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the first subframe, the internal tamper slides comprising elements for receiving and retaining a cutting tool; a plurality of first identical servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the internal tamper slides and the cutting tool thereof, along an individual axis to one of the work stations; a plurality of identical external tamper slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the other subframe, the external tamper slides comprising elements for receiving and retaining a cutting tool; a plurality of second identical servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the external tamper slides and the cutting tool thereof, perpendicularly relative to an individual axis to one of the work stations; a plurality of identical saddles, each saddle supporting one of the external tamper slides and the second individual servoactivator thereto; and a plurality of identical third servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the saddles and the external tamper slide, and the second servoactivator mounted thereon along a path extending parallel to the individual axis to one of the work stations.

2. The multi-spindle CNC lathe, according to Claim 1, wherein the base comprises a plurality of steel plates interconnected by welding, and defining a refrigerant storage tank for the multi-spindle lathe.

3. The multi-spindle CNC lathe, according to claim 1, wherein each sub-frame comprises a precision casting piece defining separate, parallel alignment surfaces, and a plurality of tension rods that rigidly interconnect the sub-frames and place the alignment surfaces of the same parallel to each other.

4. The multi-spindle CNC lathe, according to claim 1, characterized in that it also comprises: a plurality of handrail carrying tubes, each connected to the collar of each of the spindles, an amount of refrigerant contained within each of the hoses carrying the handle, and elements to selectively pressurize the refrigerant inside the hoses carrying the handle, the pressurized refrigerant, thereby forcing the handle contained therein outwards, through the associated collar.

5. The multi-spindle CNC lathe, according to claim 1, wherein the indexing element also includes: a spindle carrier having a plurality of spindles mounted thereon; supporting elements mounted on the second subframe to support the spindle carrier for rotation towards the central axis; a first coupling portion mounted on the spindle carrier; a second coupling portion mounted in the second sub-frame, adjacent to the support element therein; and elements for selectively disengaging the first engaging portion in the spindle carrier from the second engaging portion in the subframe, to allow the indexation of the spindle carrier towards the central axis, and to engage the first coupling portion in the spindle carrier with the second coupling portion in the subframe, to prevent indexing of the spindle carrier.

6. The multi-spindle CNC lathe, according to claim 1, wherein each of the internal tamper tool slides and the first servoactivators comprise: a slide member comprising elements for receiving a tool holder; a ball screw operably connected to the slide member; a ball nut operatively engaged with the ball screw; and a servomotor for selectively rotating the ball nut to extend and retract the ball screw, thereby extending and retracting the slide member along the axis of its respective work station.

7. The multi-spindle CNC lathe, according to claim 1, wherein each of the outer tool slides also comprises: guiding elements supporting the saddle for movement relative to the sub-frame, in a direction extending parallel to the axis of the associated work station, and wherein each third servoactivator includes a ball screw operably connected to the saddle, a ball nut, and a servomotor to rotate the ball nut to extend and retract the ball screw , and selectively placing, by means of the same, the saddle in relation to the subframe; each second servoactivator includes a ball nut connected to the tamper slide, a ball screw operably connected to the ball nut, and a servo motor for selectively rotating the ball screw, and thereby extending and retracting the ball screw. tamper slide and cutting tool.

8. A multi-spindle CNC lathe comprising a plurality of identical external tool slide mechanisms, each comprising: stationary frame elements; a saddle; guiding elements supporting the saddle for movement relative to the stationary frame elements in a direction extending parallel to the axis of an associated work station; a saddle servoactivator including a ball screw operably connected to the saddle, a ball nut, and a first servomotor to rotate the ball nut, to extend and retract the ball screw and, thereby, to place selectively the saddle in relation to the elements of stationary frame; a slide mounted movably on the saddle, which has a cutting tool mounted thereon; and a slide-mounted servo-activator that includes a ball nut connected to the slide, a ball screw operatively connected to the ball stub, and a second servomotor to selectively rotate the ball screw and, through the same, extend and retract the slide and the cutting tool in relation to the saddle.

9. The multi-spindle CNC lathe, according to claim 2, characterized in that it also comprises elements for continuously circulating the coolant through the base, to prevent the coolant from becoming rancid, and to maintain a constant temperature of the coolant. .

10. The multi-spindle CNC lathe, according to claim 4, characterized in that it also comprises elements for continuously rotating the handle carrier tubes. The multi-spindle CNC lathe according to Claim 5, wherein the selective gear and gearing elements comprise a hydraulic cylinder for selectively engaging the coupling portion on the spindle carrier with the coupling portion on the spindle carrier. sub-frame and, by means of the same, locate the spindle carrier. 12. A multi-spindle CNC lathe comprising: a plurality of identical tool slide mechanisms, each comprising: stationary frame elements; a slide mounted on the stationary frame elements, which has a cutting tool mounted thereon; a slide servoactivator including a ball screw connected to the slide, a ball nut operably connected to the ball screw, and a servomotor to selectively rotate the ball nut and, thereby, activate the ball screw. ball to extend and retract the slide. 13. A multi-spindle CNC lathe comprising: a base comprising a coolant reservoir; a frame assembly mounted on the base, including first and second separate, rigidly interconnected subframes, defining separate, parallel alignment surfaces; a plurality of spindles, each comprising a collar for receiving and rotating a handle portion toward a spindle axis; elements for indexing the spindles towards a central axis and in sequential alignment with each of a plurality of work stations located at equally spaced intervals towards the central axis; a plurality of internal slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the first subframe, the internal slides comprising elements for receiving and retaining a cutting tool; a plurality of first identical servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the internal slides and the cutting tool thereof, along an individual axis to one of the work stations; a plurality of external slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the other subframe, the external slides comprising elements for receiving and retaining a cutting tool; a plurality of second servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the external slides and the cutting tool thereof, perpendicularly relative to an individual axis to one of the work stations; a plurality of saddles, each saddle supporting one of the external sliders and the second individual servoactivator thereto; a plurality of third servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the saddles and the outer slider, and the second servoactivator mounted thereon along a path extending parallel to the individual axis to one of the work stations; and elements for continuously circulating the refrigerant through the base to prevent the refrigerant from becoming rancid, and to maintain a constant temperature of the refrigerant. 14. A multi-spindle CNC lathe comprising: a base comprising a coolant reservoir; a frame assembly mounted on the base, including first and second separate, rigidly interconnected subframes, defining separate, parallel alignment surfaces; a plurality of spindles, each comprising a collar for receiving and rotating a handle portion toward a spindle axis; elements for indexing the spindles towards a central axis and in sequential alignment with each of a plurality of work stations located at equally spaced intervals towards the central axis; a plurality of internal slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the first subframe, the internal slides comprising elements for receiving and retaining a cutting tool; a plurality of first identical servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the internal slides and the cutting tool thereof, along an individual axis to one of the work stations; a plurality of external slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the other subframe, the external slides comprising elements for receiving and retaining a cutting tool; a plurality of seconds, servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the external slides and the cutting tool thereof, perpendicularly relative to an individual axis to one of the work stations; a plurality of saddles, each saddle supporting one of the external sliders and the second individual servoactivator thereto; a plurality of third servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the saddles and the outer slider, and the second servoactivator mounted thereon along a path extending parallel to the individual axis to one of the work stations; and a plurality of handle carrier tubes, each connected to the collar of one of the spindles; a quantity of refrigerant contained inside each of the tubes carrying the handle, - elements for selectively pressurizing the refrigerant inside the tubes carrying the handle and, by means of the same, forcing the handle contained therein through the associated collar; and elements for continuously rotating the handlebar bearing tubes. 15. A multi-spindle CNC lathe comprising: a base comprising a coolant reservoir; a frame assembly mounted on the base, including first and second separate, rigidly interconnected subframes, defining separate, parallel alignment surfaces; a plurality of spindles, each comprising a collar for receiving and rotating a handle portion toward a spindle axis; elements for indexing the spindles towards a central axis and in sequential alignment with each of a plurality of work stations located at equally spaced intervals towards the central axis; a plurality of internal slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the first subframe, the internal slides comprising elements for receiving and retaining a cutting tool; a plurality of first identical servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the internal slides and the cutting tool thereof, along an individual axis to one of the work stations; a plurality of external slides, each supported on the alignment surface of the other subframe, the external slides comprising elements for receiving and retaining a cutting tool; a plurality of second servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the external slides and the cutting tool thereof, perpendicularly relative to an individual axis to one of the work stations; a plurality of saddles, each saddle supporting one of the external sliders and the second individual servoactivator thereto; a plurality of third servoactivators, each for selectively advancing and retracting one of the saddles and the outer slider, and the second servoactivator mounted thereon along a path extending parallel to the individual axis to one of the work stations; a spindle carrier having a plurality of spindles mounted thereon; supporting elements mounted on the second subframe to support the spindle carrier for rotation towards the central axis; a first coupling portion mounted on the spindle carrier; a second coupling portion mounted in the second sub-frame, adjacent to the support elements therein; and elements for selectively disengaging the first engaging portion in the spindle carrier from the second engaging portion in the subframe, to allow indexing of the spindle carrier toward the central axis, and to engage the first engaging portion in the carrier of spindles with the second coupling portion in the subframe, to avoid indexation of the spindle carrier; and wherein the selective gear and gear elements comprise a hydraulic cylinder for selectively meshing the coupling portion in the spindle carrier with the coupling portion in the subframe and, thereby, locating the spindle carrier.