Work set up method and apparatus

In a work set up apparatus for use with at least one machine tool associated with a work table having an upper surface and a tool for performing work on a workpiece, comprising:

• means defining a fixture having a plurality of mounting holes therein spaced predetermined distances apart;
• means for supporting at least one workpiece at a predetermined locafion on said fixture;
• quick connect means for locking said fixture to said table at a predetermined location;
• said quick connect means comprising a plurality of ball locks, each having a female portion generated about an axis and rigidly secured to said table, and a male portion insertable into an associated female portion for firmly clamping the fixture to said table;
• said work table having a plurality of T-slots therein, and additionally comprising a T-track transferring device fitted in said T-slots in said table:
• said T-track transfer device including a plurality of first balls, and means for moving upper surface of said first balls between positions above and below the upper surface of said table;
• when said fixture is supported on said balls, said fixture with a heavy workpiece thereon being easily moved into position to be locked to said table by said ball locks;
• and when said balls are below said upper surface of said table, said fixture being directly supported upon said work table and said ball locks being in position to be actuated to rigidly secure said fixture to said work table.

A method of reducing the set up time for preparing a machine tool to perform work on a workpiece by firmly and accurately clamping a fixture to a work table having a plurality of lock receiving annuluses rigidly connected thereto, comprising the steps of:

• locating the workpiece in fixed position on a fixture having a plurality of mounting holes therein;
• supporting the fixture on said work table;
• aligning one mounting hole with one of said annuluses;
• inserting one lock in said one aligned hole and said one annulus;
• pivoting said fixture about said one lock for aligning other mounting holes with other ones of said lock receiving annuluses;
• inserting other locks in said other aligned mounting holes and annuluses;
• and
• firmly clamping said fixture to said table by actuating said one and said other locks for firmly clamping said fixture and workpiece to said work table in a predetermined position.