Patent ID: 6241229
Filing Date: 2001-06-05
Classification: B21D,B23Q

Abstract:
A machine tool for the processing of plate-like workpieces (9), including:(a) a machine frame (2) having a processing station (5);(b) a fixed work table (8) having its upper surface extending in a generally horizontal plane about said processing station;(c) a coordinate guide assembly (10) for moving the workpiece in a second plane over said work table (8) parallel to said horizontal plane of said work table in two perpendicular coordinate directions (x, y), said coordinate guide assembly (10) comprising an elongated guide rail (11) mounted on said machine frame (2) and movable in a first coordinate direction (y) towards and away from said work station and at least one workpiece support (12) movable on said guide rail in the second coordinate direction (x), said rail (11) projecting a substantial distance beyond at least one side of said work table (8) to provide an overhang facing said work table (8), said coordinate guide (10) having a workpiece support on the overhang of the guide rail (11) movable with said guide rail (11) and facing said machine frame (2) to move the workpiece over said work table (8) relative to the processing station;(d) said machine tool further including a rigid reinforcing element (16, 17) for said guide rail (11) along substantially the entire length of said overhang of said guide rail (11) and having a portion extending in the (y) coordinate direction to said machine frame (2), said portion of said reinforcing element being supported on said machine frame and being movable relative thereto in the (y) direction said reinforcing element being secured to said rail and movable therewith in said first (y) coordinate direction, said guide rail (11) being stiffened by said reinforcing element (16, 17) against distortion and displacement in a plane extending parallel to said horizontal plane of said work table, said reinforcing element (16, 17) comprising a self-supporting relatively light-weight plate with an upper surface which provides at least a part of the support for the workpiece in said second plane.