Patent ID: 6375539
Filing Date: 2002-04-23
Classification: B24B

Abstract:
A lapping machine for lapping a row bar formed with a plurality of head elements arranged in a line, comprising:a lap plate for providing a lapping surface; a row tool having a plurality of bend cells formed by defining a plurality of slits; a pressure mechanism for pressing said row tool toward said lapping surface of said lap plate; and a bend mechanism for bending said bend cells of said row tool toward said lapping surface of said lap plate; said bend mechanism comprising: an air cylinder unit having a plurality of double-acting air cylinders; a plurality of racks operatively connected to said double-acting air cylinders, respectively; a plurality of first pinions arranged coaxially and meshing with said racks, respectively, each of said first pinions being integrally formed with a lever; a plurality of second pinions arranged coaxially and meshing with said racks, respectively, said second pinions being spaced apart from said first pinions; a guide mechanism for guiding each of said racks, the respective first pinion, and the respective second pinion in substantially the same plane; and each of said bend cells of said row tool having an engaging hole for engaging a front end of each lever, whereby each lever engaged with said engaging hole is rotated to bend each bend cell of said row tool toward said lapping surface of said lap plate.