Patent ID: 6193048
Filing Date: 2001-02-27
Classification: B23Q,Y10T

Abstract:
An automatic pallet changer system for an automatic machining center, the automatic machining center having a machining enclosure with an automated machine tool therein and a bed moveable in two dimensions for carrying a workpiece which is being machined, said pallet changer system comprising:a receiver on the bed for receiving a first pallet or a second pallet;a first track for receiving the first pallet having a first workpiece thereon, and a second track for receiving the second pallet having a second workpiece thereon, said first and second tracks being side-by-side, said tracks extending from outside of said enclosure to inside said enclosure;a powered linear drive unit arranged between the first and second tracks having a carriage which moves along a longitudinally extending carriage guide in a straight line, and wherein said linear drive unit has a mechanism for engaging said carriage with the first or second pallet; anda control unit connected to operate the linear drive unit;wherein the mechanism of the linear drive unit for engaging with the first or second pallet comprises a rocker unit for rocking the linear drive unit to the left or to the right so that a member on said carriage engages the first or second pallet, and wherein said rocker unit is connected to the linear drive unit.