Patent ID: 6120358
Filing Date: 2000-09-19
Classification: B24B

Abstract:
An automated method for forming a teardrop shaped recess on a cylindrical workpiece, the steps comprising:securing the workpiece adjacent to a first station;rotating the workpiece to a second work station, wherein the second work station has a first grinding tool;positioning the first grinding tool to engage the workpiece;activating the first grinding tool to grind a portion of the recess into the workpiece;rotating the workpiece to a second work station, wherein the third work station has a second grinding tool;positioning the second grinding tool to engage the workpiece;activating the second grinding tool to grind another portion of the recess into the workpiece;rotating the workpiece to a fourth work station, wherein the fourth work station has a third grinding tool;positioning the third grinding tool to engage the workpiece;activating the third grinding tool to grind another portion of the recess into the workpiece;rotating the workpiece to the first work station; andremoving the workpiece from the first work station.