Patent ID: 6152435
Filing Date: 2000-11-28
Classification: B25B

Abstract:
A clamping mechanism for holding a multi-diameter part, comprising:a) a clamping base including:i) an integrated tightening mechanism andii) first and second clamping blocks positioned opposite and parallel to each other, said first and second clamping blocks having inside and outside surfaces, said first clamping block being attached to said tightening mechanism and said second clamping block being attached to said base;b) first and second collet jaws, said first and second collet jaws each having an inside surface and an outside surface, said outside surface of said first collet jaw reversibly secured to said inside surface of said first clamping block and said outside surface of said second collet jaw reversibly secured to said inside surface of said second clamping block, said first and second collet jaws each including:i) at least a pair of collet pockets formed on said inside surface of each collet jaw, each collet pocket shaped to receive a collet pad andii) means for securing said collet jaw to said clamping blocks; andc) at least a pair of collet pads reversibly secured to each said collet jaw, a shape of said collet pads essentially forming an arc of a hollow tube, said collet pads having an outside radius and an inside radius, said outside radius being such that said collet pad will accurately fit into said at least one collet pocket, said inside radius being substantially equal to a proximate radius of the part being held in place.