Patent ID: 7168356
Filing Date: 2007-01-30
Classification: B21D,Y10T

Abstract:
1. An adjustable length punch assembly for use with a punch press having a ram, comprising: a drive body assembly having a striking surface adapted to be struck by the ram of the punch press; a punch body assembly disposed in threading engagement with the drive body assembly such that a length of the punch assembly is adjustable in response to rotation of one of the body assemblies relative to another of the body assemblies about a longitudinal axis of the punch assembly; and a lock mechanism for selectively preventing rotation of the punch body assembly relative to the drive body assembly; wherein the lock mechanism comprises a lock shaft, coupled to one of the body assemblies, and a lock key, slidingly coupled to the other of the body assemblies, such that the lock key moves along a lock key path; the lock key including an opening adapted to receive the lock shaft, the opening extending about the longitudinal axis of the punch assembly and including a lock shaft engaging portion which faces toward the longitudinal axis; and the lock key path being disposed at an angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the punch assembly.