Patent ID: 11911888
Assignee: HUBBELL INCORPORATED
Field: Machine tools (Mechanical engineering)
Classification: CPC B | IPC B

Claim 16:
17. A method of deforming a workpiece comprising the steps of:
selecting a working head of a head type interchangeable with a plurality of types of working heads capable of performing different tasks, the working head comprising a working surface, a head indicia identifying the selected head type, and a first interlocking structure comprising two arms connected with the head and extending in a proximal direction, the arms forming a T-shaped cross section, wherein the arms extend from the working head separated from one another by a gap between the arms extending a full width of the arms in a first direction perpendicular to a distal direction, wherein the head indicia are disposed on a surface of the working head adjacent to the gap,
providing a tool frame, the tool frame comprising;
a hydraulic system;
a piston connected with and driven by the hydraulic system, wherein the piston moves in the distal direction upon actuation of the hydraulic system;
a second interlocking structure comprising a T-shaped slot adapted to receive the first interlocking structure to removably connect the head with the frame and engage the piston with the working surface, wherein the first and second structures engage with one another by sliding the arms of the first structure in the first direction into the slot of the second structure;
a head sensor adapted to detect the head indicia, wherein the head sensor is disposed on a surface of the tool frame adjacent the T-shaped slot; and
a controller adapted to control the hydraulic system, wherein the controller is in signal communication with the head sensor and the hydraulic system and wherein the controller detects a current force applied by the hydraulic system;

connecting the head with the tool frame and connecting the piston to the working surface of the head by sliding the first structure into the slot of the second structure in the first direction perpendicular to the distal direction, wherein, when the working head is engaged with the tool frame, the head sensor detects the head indicia;
determining, by the controller based on the signal from the head sensor the selected head type and a maximum force to apply based, at least in part on the selected head type;
arranging a workpiece in the working head;
energizing the hydraulic system to move the piston to drive the working surface toward the workpiece;
monitoring the current force applied by the hydraulic system;
determining that the current force is equal to or greater than the maximum force; and
deenergizing the hydraulic system.