Patent ID: 7198440
Filing Date: 2007-04-03
Classification: B23F,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An apparatus for positioning a workpiece in a spindle of a machine tool and removing a workpiece therefrom, said spindle having an axis of rotation and said workpiece having a centerline extending between a first end surface and a second end surface, said apparatus comprising: a mechanism for grasping the workpiece in a position proximate said spindle whereby said centerline is coincident with said axis of rotation, means to move said spindle relative to said workpiece in the direction of said axis of rotation whereby said workpiece is inserted into said spindle or removed from said spindle, wherein said mechanism includes a first gripping means for gripping the workpiece at the intersection of the first end surface and the centerline, said first gripping means being positionable between an engaged position and a disengaged position.