Modular transfer system for workpieces

A modular transfer system for workpieces comprising:

• (1) at least two manufacturing modules which are identical in their leading dimensions, each manufacturing module comprising:
• (a) one or more tool mounting fixtures with a drive for tool movement;
• (b) a table for the accommodation of machining forces;
• (c) a servo drive for the purposeful displacement of a workpiece carrier along a first main axis to displace the workpiece carrier with respect to the one or more tool mounting fixtures, and along a second main axis, which differs from the first main axis, to displace the workpiece carrier between adjacent manufacturing modules, within a machining space of a module and for direct transfer of a workpiece carrier between modules without the aid of a conveyor belt;
• and
• (d) one or more switches, sensors or combination thereof, for gathering information related to machines, tools and workpieces, which connect to at least one local electronic controlling and regulating unit;
• (2) interconnections for transmission of energy, information or both between the manufacturing modules;
• and
• (3) an electronic control station in communication with the controlling and regulating units,
• wherein the servo drive of a first manufacturing module is configured to (i) retrieve a workpiece from a second manufacturing module that is positioned adjacent to the first manufacturing module, (ii) transport the workpiece to a machining space of the first manufacturing module to undergo a machining operation, and (iii) deliver the workpiece to a third manufacturing module that is positioned adjacent to the first manufacturing module following the machining operation to be retrieved by the servo drive of the third manufacturing module.