Patent ID: 6445971
Filing Date: 2002-09-03
Classification: B23Q,Y10T

Abstract:
An apparatus for machining a workpiece about three axes comprising:a tool for machining a workpiece; at least two holders fixed in position relative to each other such that a first holder is located in a first position remote from the tool and a second holder is located in a second position adjacent the tool, wherein the second holder retains a workpiece and operates in cooperation with the tool to machine the workpiece about three axes while the first holder is receiving a raw workpiece intended for machining; a rotating index table supporting the at least two holders, the index table operating to rotate the at least two holders such that, when the machining operation on the workpiece in the second holder is completed, the first holder retaining the raw workpiece is moved to the second position adjacent the tool and the second holder with the finished workpiece is moved to the first position remote from the tool, wherein the finished workpiece is removed from the second holder and another raw workpiece is positioned in the second holder while the workpiece retained in the first holder is being machined; and a controller for simultaneously controlling the table, the holders, the machining of the workpiece and the positioning of the tool and at least two holders to machine the workpiece on three axes.