Patent ID: 6155548
Filing Date: 2000-12-05
Classification: B23Q,B25B,H05K,Y10S

Abstract:
A fixture for aligning and clamping a workpiece (1) on a machine tool (8), wherein the workpiece (1) comprises a pair of locating elements (5, 6), and wherein the fixture (13) is carried by a worktable (12) and comprises a fixed bar (14) and a moveable bar (16); said fixed bar (14) being fitted to a first plate (17) for supporting said workpiece (1); said moveable bar (16) being fitted to a second plate (18) for supporting said workpiece (1); said plates (17, 18) being so arranged as to define a gap (23) for housing at least one (6) of said locating elements (5, 6); said moveable bar (16) being operatively associated with a container (24) made of elastomeric material and connected to a supply means for supplying a pressurized fluid; said pressurized fluid deforming said container (24) to so move said moveable bar (16) so as to clamp said at least one locating element (6); said moveable bar (16) moving substantially parallel to itself toward said fixed bar (14), said container (24) comprising a conduit (36) made of elastomeric material and extending parallel to and substantially the whole length of said moveable bar (16); said conduit (36) being closed at ends by two plug members (39,41) made of rigid material, and wherein said conduit (36) has an oblong cross section, and is housed inside a half-seat (38) complementary to said cross section; said half-seat (38) being provided on said second plate (18); and said conduit and said plug members (39,41) being fitted to each other by a pair of fastening members (42), each having a further half-seat (43) complementary to said cross section.