Patent ID: 7168899
Filing Date: 2007-01-30
Classification: B23Q,Y10T

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for centering a workpiece on a machine tool, comprising: (a) first and second guide plates having respective first and second aligned bores therein supporting a centering pin mounted therein for axial movement between a retracted position and a use position, wherein the centering pin is adapted to cooperate with a workpiece for positioning the workpiece in a predetermined position relative to a metal shaping operation to be carried out by the machine tool on the workpiece; (b) at least one spring cooperating with the centering pin and exerting a predetermined axial bias urging the centering pin into the use position; and (c) a lock adapted to selectively lock the centering pin in the use position and prevent axial motion thereof during the metal shaping operation, wherein the lock comprises a locking strap extended over the top of the centering pin from one radial side to the other and moveable between a release position allowing axial movement of the centering pin and a lock position for locking the centering pin in the use position.