Patent ID: 8029217
Filing Date: 2011-10-04
Classification: B23B,B23Q,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A machine tool comprising: a stationary part; a spindle rotatable relative to the stationary part, the spindle comprising a shank receiving area for releasably retaining the shank of a cutter or other machine tool accessory; a first electrical link between the stationary part and the spindle; and a first portion of a second electrical link at the shank receiving area of the spindle, the first portion of the second electrical link being electrically connected with the first electrical link and providing, in use, a disconnectable electrical link between the spindle and a retained shank; wherein the first portion of the second electrical link comprises a plurality of electrical contacts, wherein the first electrical link and the first portion of the second electrical link are arranged to provide a plurality of separate electrical paths between the stationary part and a retained shank wherein at least one of the plurality of separate electrical paths is arranged to carry electrical power, and wherein the first electrical link comprises a non-contact electrical interface.