Patent ID: 7703190
Filing Date: 2010-04-27
Classification: B23Q,B25B,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A tooling system for approximating a desired tooling surface, comprising: a plurality of elements arranged in an array, each element being moveable longitudinally relative to the other elements in the array and having a first end; adjustment means for individually adjusting the positions of the elements in a longitudinal direction in order to achieve predetermined relative positions of the elements; means for retaining the elements in their adjusted positions, wherein the first end of each element is provided on a machinable portion removably mounted on a base portion, the free ends of the elements designed to be machined to produce the desired tooling surface contour; and a plurality of moveable rails, each rail having a plurality of said elements mounted thereon in a single line, the rails being movable relative to one another in a direction substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the elements so as to allow the elements of the array to be moved from a closed position in which the elements on one of said movable rails contacts the elements on an adjacent movable rail, to an open position in which elements on at least two adjacent rows of the array are spaced apart such that individual elements can be moved relative to one another.