Tool setting device for machining center

Abstract

A tool setting device for a machine tool (10) having a numerical control (22) includes a gage unit (24) with a frame (26) adapted to be secured upon a slide (20) of the machine tool. A photodetector, which includes a source (96) and a receiver (98), is mounted upon the frame for generating a first signal indicating the arrival of the tip of a tool (18). A slide (64) mounted upon the frame carries an engagement head (38) adapted to be contacted and displaced by the tool tip. An LVDT (60) is mounted upon the frame in proximity to the engagement head for sensing its axial displacements. A control meter relay (86,88) is operatively connected to the LVDT and generates a second signal after initial displacement of the engagement head and a third signal after displacement of the engagement head to a reference position. The numerical control is adapted to reduce the relative velocity between the tool tip and the frame after generation of the first signal and to further reduce the relative velocity after generation of the second signal. The numerical control samples the reference position of the tool tip after generation of the third signal. The various signals are also capable of illuminating lights (R,G,A) for facilitating manual tool setting by an operator.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.