Method and apparatus for machining axially symmetrical parts

Abstract

The invention pertains to a process and an apparatus for machining axially symmetrical parts on lathes or rotary broaching machines in which the workpiece is held at each end by an axial clamping pin and a clamping jaw assembly, the clamping pins and clamping jaw assemblies cooperating such that the clamping jaw assemblies may be retracted relative the clamping pins when the ends of the workpiece are being machined and may be extended relative the clamping pins when additional support for the workpiece is desired, as, for example, when the central portion of the workpiece is being machined. The clamping pins and clamping jaw assemblies are movable relative each other and relative the workpiece such that machining of both ends of the workpiece may take place simultaneously or sequentially, followed by machining of the central portion of the workpiece, on a single apparatus and as part of a continuous, uninterrupted machining sequence.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.