Back to results
US 6,508,692 B2Granted
CNC machine tools
AssigneeGlassline Corporation
InventorCharles E. Gottschalk
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
This device is a computer numerically controlled (CNC) machine tool such as an edge grinding apparatus. More specifically, the device is a CNC apparatus for processing blanks such as a glass sheet. The device uses a sensor to program the path of the grinding wheel. The device analyzes the position of all like-workpieces placed in the machine and creates offset parameters to accurately process each workpiece in accordance with the initial preprogrammed path.
Claims7
An apparatus for use in machining a workpiece comprising, in combination:
- a workpiece holder for receiving and mounting a workpiece in a fixed position, with the workpiece holder being movable in at least one direction along X, Y or Z axes;
- a tool assembly having at least one tool for machining the workpiece, the tool assembly being movable in at least one direction corresponding to X,Y or Z axes;
- a controller operatively connected with the workpiece holder and the tool assembly, the controller being programmable to cause relative movement of the workpiece holder and tool assembly along such axes to effect machining of the workpiece;
- and
- a sensor in engagement with the controller for scanning the workpiece to map its periphery and sending signals to the controller relating the workpiece position and orientation along such axes, wherein the controller initiates machining of the workpiece in accordance with the signals received from the sensor.
2 more elements
An apparatus for use in machining a workpiece comprising, in combination:
- a workpiece holder for receiving and mounting a workpiece in a fixed position, the workpiece holder being movable in at least one direction along X, Y or Z axes;
- a tool assembly having at least one tool for machining the workpiece, the tool assembly being movable in at least one direction corresponding X, Y or Z axes;
- a controller operatively connected with the workpiece holder and the tool assembly, the controller being programmable to cause relative movement of the workpiece holder and tool assembly along such axes to effect machining of the workpiece;
- and
- a sensor in engagement with the controller for scanning the workpiece and sending signals to the controller relating the workpiece position and orientation along such axes, wherein the controller initiates the positional scan of the workpiece by orienting the sensor over the workpiece such that the sensor locates the edge of the workpiece to map the periphery of the workpiece, the sensor continually signals the controller data relating the positional orientation of the workpiece and the controller then creates relative movement between the workpiece holder and tool assembly to move the at least one tool and the workpiece holder in cooperation to machine the workpiece.
2 more elements
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.