Reconfigurable machine tool

A machine tool assembly for machining a workpiece, said machine tool assembly comprising:

• a base having a top surface;
• means for securing the workpiece relative to said base;
• at least one horizontal support unit having a horizontal body portion and a leg portion, said horizontal body portion defining a horizontal curvilinear path with a groove therealong, said horizontal path being generally centered about said securing means, said horizontal support unit removably attachable to said base in a plurality of locations so that said machine tool assembly is easily reconfigurable to perform multiple tasks on the workpieces;
• at least one vertical support unit having a body portion and a leg portion, said body portion defining a curvilinear path in a substantially vertical plane and including a groove therealong, said vertical path being generally centered about said securing means, said vertical support unit removably attachable to said base in a plurality of locations so that said machine tool assembly is easily reconfigurable to perform multiple tasks on the workpieces;
• and
• at least one spindle unit, said spindle unit being movably attachable within said grooves along said horizontal and vertical support units so that said spindle unit is movable to any location along each of said grooves, said spindle unit including a rotatable end that rotates about a single axis and has means for performing a machining process attached thereto, said rotatable end being linearly movable along said axis of rotation during operation of said spindle unit, said spindle unit being computer controlled to perform the desired machining process on the workpiece.

A machine tool assembly for machining a workpiece, or performing a series of operations, said machine tool assembly comprising:

• a base having a top surface;
• means for securing the workpieces relative to said base;
• at least one support unit having a body portion and a leg portion, said support unit removably attachable to said base at a plurality of locations on said top surface thereby defining a first support degree of freedom;
• and
• at least one spindle unit, said spindle unit being movably attachable to said support unit so that said spindle unit is movable relative to said support unit thereby defining a second degree of freedom, said spindle unit including means for performing a machining process on the workpiece.