Patent ID: 7211033
Filing Date: 2007-05-01
Classification: B23Q,Y10S,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A machine tool having at least one working spindle, in which working spindle a tool receptacle for tool holders is provided, having at least one tool-changing arm with a gripper for a tool holder in order to transfer this tool holder between its magazine position, which is spaced apart from the tool receptacle, and its working position, in which the tool holder can be clamped into the tool receptacle, and having orientation means arranged between the gripper and the tool holder supported by said gripper, which orientation means secure the tool holder in a nonrotatable manner on the gripper at least during its transfer between the magazine position and the working position, wherein the orientation means release the tool holder after it has been clamped into the receptacle, with the result that it can be rotated in relation to the gripper, and wherein the orientation means comprise at least one latching projection which is provided on the gripper and is assigned to an orientation notch on the tool holder; wherein the gripper has a web which projects radially inwards and engages in a gripper groove, which is formed in an encircling manner on a collar provided on the tool holder, the at least one orientation notch being provided in or in the vicinity of the gripper groove and the at least one latching projection being provided on the web or in its vicinity, the latching projection pointing upwards towards the tool receptacle and the orientation notch pointing downwards when the tool holder is inserted into the tool receptacle; wherein a positioning indicator is provided for the peripheral alignment of the tool holder with respect to the gripper, the positioning indicator indicating a misalignment between the tool holder and gripper, and wherein the positioning indicator is assigned a position sensor which recognizes the peripheral alignment of the tool holder with respect to the gripper.