Modular transfer machine

Abstract

A transfer machine of the type in which workpieces are successively transferred through a series of work stations on either side of the line of movement of the workpieces with work heads located at each station to perform various operations on the workpieces. The disclosed transfer machine consists of one or more transfer machine module units, each module including a prismatic base having upwardly directed sides upon which are mounted a series of oppositely directed heads and the workpiece transfer system mounted to the base and extending between the work heads to convey the workpieces up and down the base sides. The resulting vertical spacing of the work heads from one another enables closer spacing of the work heads by enabling access to the tooling through the space through which the workpieces are transferred, while reducing the floor space required for the machine. Also, chips formed during machining operations fall away so as not to accumulate at the machining station. The modular design allows disassembly of the machine with the work heads secured to the modular bases to greatly reduce the disassembly of separate hydraulic, electrical, lube lines and reduces the number of separate bases. The transfer mechanism may transfer the workpieces through one or more successive modules.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.