Gripping unit for automated machining of parts, and machining device and process integrating such a unit

Part machining device, comprising at least one gripping unit capable of being transferred between at least one machine tool and at least one loading unloading station, to enable automated machining of at least one part, the gripping unit comprising a pallet and means of gripping the said part mounted on the pallet, in which the said unit also comprises orientation means by which the gripping means are mounted on the pallet, control means capable of selecting the orientation means in response to control signals from the machine tool, and bearing means mounted on the pallet by other orientation means, the machining device also comprising at least one machine tool capable of holding the gripping unit, at least one loading unloading station capable of holding the gripping unit and means capable of supplying energy to the gripping unit, in which each machine tool also comprises second control means capable of sending the said control signals and signal transmission means are provided to transmit the said control signals between the gripping unit control means and the second control means, when the gripping unit is held on the machine tool.