Method and apparatus of using a high amperage tool adaptor with an electrical discharge machine

Abstract

A tool adaptor which can be used with an electrode on electrical discharge machine having a current source and a C-axis controller for selectively rotating the electrode. The tool adaptor includes a tool holder for selectively and releasably securing the tool adaptor to said C-axis controller, a jig plate adapted for securing the electrode, an isolating assembly, including a spacer, interposed between the tool holder and the jig plate for preventing effective electrical and/or thermal communication between the jig plate and the tool holder. The tool adaptor also can include an electrical assembly for establishing and maintaining electrical communication between the jig plate and the current source, so that the tool adaptor is configured to permit selective rotational movement of the electrode. The electrical assembly may include a connector adapted for being selectively mountable around the C-axis controller, and being in electrical communication with the current source, and a shank (e.g., pin) being capable of establishing and maintaining electrical communication between the connector and the jig plate.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.