Workpiece loader/unloader system

Abstract

A workpiece loader/unloader system for an industrial machine, such as a hemmer, is disclosed. The system includes a single pocket shuttle movable between an extended position in which the shuttle overlies a work station on the industrial machine, and a retracted position in which the shuttle is laterally spaced from the work station. A gripper on the shuttle selectively engages and supports the workpiece after the workpiece has been machined at the work station. A loader manipulator is movable between a preload position in which the loader supports an unmachined workpiece at a position laterally spaced from the work station, and a load position in which the loader manipulator overlies the work station. An actuator moves the loader manipulator between the preload and load position. Furthermore, the loader manipulator mechanically engages the shuttle and simultaneously moves the shuttle from its extended position and to its retracted position as the loader manipulator moves from its preload and to its load position. A passive system, such as a spring, returns the shuttle from its retracted and to its extended position.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.