Static flexible tooling system
AssigneeAdvanced Machine Works, LLC
InventorLarry Don Kirby
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A system for supporting workpieces during machining. The system comprises one or more adjustable workpiece support assemblies and a robotic unit. Each workpiece support assembly comprises a pedestal and a rotatable fixture element. The robotic assembly comprises means of mobilizing and immobilizing each support assembly, so that the fixture element may be secured in a particular orientation. The robotic unit moves along a frame, and manipulates and fixes the position of the fixture elements to match the contour of a workpiece. Vacuum forces may be applied through the workpiece support assemblies to secure the workpiece against the fixture elements.
Claims10
A workpiece support assembly comprising:
- a pedestal;
- a support tube carried by the pedestal and having a longitudinal axis;
- an offset arm carried by the support tube and selectively rotatable about its longitudinal axis, the arm having a rectilinear channel formed therein;
- and
- a fixture element supported above the channel and movable along a line parallel thereto, the fixture element having at least two degrees of rotational freedom.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.